
Class ^BfoOb i 

Fl A s 

PRESENTED BY 




R£V. E. A. SHARRtfTTS, D. D. 



THE 

Susquehanna Synod 



OF THE 



Evangelical Lutheran Church 



IN THE 



United States 



A History 
1867-1917 



Published by the Synod on its- 
Fiftieth Anniversary 
1917 



* 



& 



^ 



;-•< 



Author 
JUL 8 »I8 



FOREWORD 

The men who in October 1867 organized the Susquehanna 
Synod were men of faith and vision. They were filled with mis- 
sionary zeal. They believed that territorial and other reasons jus- 
tified the men of the Susquehanna Conference in asking their dis- 
missals from the East Pennsylvania Synod, in order that they 
might form and do the work of a Synod. They represented a 
distinct type and class, though, of course were one with the fa- 
thers and brethren of their mother Synod, in all essentials of 
Christian faith and life. 

The fact that the little Synod which began with 4500 communi- 
cants became a Synod with 21,000 communicants in fifty years, is 
ample proof of its providential mission and justification. 

The Fiftieth Anniversary of a Lutheran Synod in America, 
may well be the occasion for a careful review of the past. A his- 
tory, then, should be a very fitting part of the Synod's jubilee. 
It is hoped that the history of our Synod's fifty years may prove 
of enough value to justify its existence. 

It is needless to say that the critical reader will find many 
imperfections. In some cases early records, which were meager 
at best, have disappeared. In other cases where doubtless, 
though possibly scant and rare, auxiliary sources of information 
exist, pastors and others were not familiar with them. Further, 
the past year has witnessed a very unusual amount of changing 
in the pastorates of the Synod, and this materially increased the 
difficulty both in getting material and getting it promptly. 

Accumulated delays prevented the work from being completed 
as early as was expected. It was intended that every charge 
should be represented by a picture of its pastor and of each church 
in it. In addition to these, it was intended that cuts of many of 
the ministers who had served one or more pastorates in the Synod 
should appear. These intentions were not fully carried out only 
because the necessary photographs or cuts were not secured, even 
though, in some instances, repeated eff orts were made by the com- 
mittee to secure them. With all of its manifest defects and 



O THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

limitations, it is hoped and believed, that the work will justify its 
cost and labor, by its personal and historic interest and value. 

The committee of the Synod on this memorial volume consisted 
of Rev's. Frank P. Manhart, J. W. Shannon and John Wagner. 

May Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church, the great Shepherd 
and Bishop of Souls, who has ever vouchsafed His gracious pres- 
ence and help to the faithful pastors and people of the Susque- 
hanna Synod, grant that in the half century to come, the pastors 
and people of our congregations may serve Him with the purest 
zeal, the truest faith and the most consecrated life of which His 
humble and devout followers are capable. 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Some special features and actions have characterized the 
Synod's life and growth. Some of these may be fittingly de- 
scribed. 

Xo Ministerium. 

Unlike most of its older and younger Synods in the General 
Synod, Susquehanna Synod has never had a Ministerium. In 
all of its business, even including trials of ministers and the de- 
cisions concerning candidates for ordination, the laymen have 
had an equal voice with the ministry. 

Xo Licensure. 

This Synod never granted a ministerial license, either from 
one convention of the Synod until another, or ad interim. It 
has thus had only ordained ministers on its list of clergymen. 
Licentiates coming to it from other Synods were classed as can- 
didates for ordination. As the Synod was unique in this par- 
ticular m 1875 its was often referred to during the great debate 
on the ministerium question at the convention of the General 
Synod in Baltimore during that year. While its position was 
endorsed by Rev. Dr. S. Sprecher, one of the two leading 
debaters on that occasion, it was referred to rather contemptu- 
ously by Rev. Dr. J. A. Brown, the other leading debater, as that 
of "one little synod." However, when the vote was taken, the 
majority decided that "in all cases where District Synods have not 
made provision for a Ministerium, all the powers and duties 
prescribed in this article shall devolve upon the Synod." As 
this action of the General Synod in 1875 is still a part of the 
Formula Government, the right and the character of the ''one 
little synod" has been amply vindicated. 

Muhlenberg Memorial Service. 

At its regular convention in 1887, the Synod resolved to hold 
a special session to commemorate the life and service of Henry 
Melchior Muhlenberg who was born in 171 1 and came to America 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. P. Born, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 9 

in 1742, at or near the time of the one hundredth anniversary 
of his death, which occurred on Oct. 7, 1787. The committee to 
arrange the services consisted of Revs. P. Born, D. D., F. P. 
Manhart and J. A. Wirt. 

Accordingly a special session of the Synod was held at Selins- 
grove, Pa., October 18 and 19, 1887. Papers were read as fol- 
lows : "Lutheranism in America Prior to the Coming of Muhlen- 
berg," by Rev. S. E. Ochsenford ; "Pietism and Halle,'' by Rev. 
J. B. Focht; "Henry Melchior Muhlenberg," by Prof. E. J. 
Wolf, D. D. ; "The Muhlenberg Family." by Rev. J. G. Morris, 
D. D., IX. D. ; "Lutheranism in America Since the Death of 
Muhlenberg," by Rev. M. S. Cressman. These papers, with 
an account of the proceedings were published in pamphlet form 
and widely distributed. 

This document closes as follows : "At the conclusion of this 
two days' celebration, rich in church history and doctrine, replete 
with Muhlenberg biography, and made most enjoyable by grand 
anthems and congregational singing, Synod formally presented 
to the Historical Society of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, 
through its honored President, the Rev. J. G. Morris, D. D., 
LL. D., a marble memorial bearing the following inscription : 

For the Glory of God 

and in honor of 

Hexry Meixhior Muhlenberg, 

1711 1742 1S87 

Patriarch of the 

Evangelical Lutheran Church 

in America, 

this Memorial was erected by the 

Susquehanna Synod 

Oct. 7, 1887. 

"Who and what he was, future ages 

will know without marble." 

This historic commemoration was very favorably commented 
upon by leading men in the Lutheran Church like Rev. B. M. 
Smucker, D. D., the distinguished Lutheran antiquarian who 
pronounced selection of topics practically perfect for the historic 
purpose in view, and by the venerable Dr. J. G. Morris, who in 




THE SYNOD'S TREASURERS 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH II 

his account in the Lutheran Observer referred to the Synod as 
"that enlightened Synod." 

The Luther Alliance. 

Something over thirty years ago, there developed a widespread 
feeling in the churches of America that societies of young people 
were needed. Accordingly, societies of varying types and names 
sprang up in many places. Among the largest has been the 
Society of Christian Endeavor founded by Rev. F. E. Clark, a 
Congregationalism 

Among American Lutherans, societies, mostly local in work 
and limits, and with many names and many aims were in exist- 
ence. Naturally then, efforts were made to secure co-ordination, 
order and co-operation among these societies of Lutherans, and 
several types of Lutheran societies came into being, like the 
Lutheran League, Knights of Wartburg, Wlather League, and 
The Young People's Luther Alliance. Of these, the first still 
exists and is found in many of our Lutheran churches belonging 
to all our General Bodies, and larger independent synods, ex- 
cept those of the Synodical Conference. The Walther League 
is limited to "Missourians." The Luther Alliance had as its 
founder the Rev. S. P. Hughes, of St. Paul's, Williamsport. 

At the meeting of the Synod of May 23, 189,0, at Catawissa, a 
committee consisting of Revs. J. M. Reimensnyder, J. A. Wirt 
and P. A. Heilman reported concerning the Alliance as follows: 

"With reference to the organization of a Young People's 
Luther Alliance within its bounds and looking forward to its 
general organization through the Church : 

"1. That we consider the organization of the young people 
of our Lutheran churches for development in active church 
work and in closer bonds of Christian fellowship, one of the most 
important questions of our time and as highly opportune. 

"2. That we heartily endorse the organization of the Young 
People's Luther Alliance upon its present plan as set forth in its 
constitution and thoroughly adapted to reach the end desired. 

"3. That we commend the Luther Alliance to the favorable 
consideration of the Church at large, and especially that Alli- 
ances be formed in the congregations within the bounds of our 
Synod wherever practicable." 



12 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. S. P. Orwig Rev. A. K. Zimmerman 

Rev. P. S. Mack 
Rev. T. C. Billheimer Rev. J. B. Keller 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 13 

The handbook of the Alliance, consisting of its constitution, 
by-laws, services and a selection of hymns, was published in neat 
booklet form by the Lutheran Publication Society, under the 
copyright of the Susquehanna Synod. 

A considerable number of Alliances were organized in con- 
gregations belonging to different synods. However, they met 
with the usual difficulties found in keeping up societies after the 
early enthusiasm has spent its force. 

Most of the young people's societies now in the Synod, as in 
the other Synods of the General Synod, are either Luther League 
or Christian Endeavor. 

Deaconess' Work in the General Synod. 

The direct beginnings of the Deaconess work in the General 
Synod took place in the Susquehanna Synod. The program for 
the meeting of the North Branch Conference in MifHinville on 
March 13, 1883, provided for the discussion of the subject of 
"Deaconesses." Revs. D. M. Henkel, D. D., E. A. Sharretts, 
J. A. Flickinger and F. P. Manhart took part in the discussion, 
after which the Conference passed the following: 

"That we believe there is an actual need of an order of dea- 
conesses in our Church and we ask Synod at her next meeting to 
consider the matter." 

The Synod at its meeting in Selinsgrove on June 4, 1883, 
voted : "That a committee of five be appointed to report upon 
this subject at the next session of our Synod, and that in the 
meantime our pastors and people be requested to give this sub- 
ject the earnest consideration that its importance demands." 

This committee reported to the Synod at its meeting in Wil- 
liamsport on June 13, 1884, as follows: 

The historical facts of importance to us in considering this 
question are as follows : 

1. In the Apostolic Church there existed a female diaconate, 
with a mission similar to that of the male diaconate. 

2. Under Theodore Fliedner, a distinguished Lutheran min- 
ister of Germany (1800-1864), an order of Protestant Deacon- 
esses grew up in connection with the great institutions of mercy 
at Kaiserswerth. They now number many thousands, and their 
beneficent Christian work, in hospitals, orphanages, Magdalen 



14 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. S. G. Shannon Rev. F. W. Staley 

Rev. M. H. Fishburn 
Rev. O. A. Mullen Rev. J. S. English 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 15 

asylums, mission fields and parishes, is known and honored in 
every quarter of the earth. 

We believe that the work providentially laid upon the Church 
in these times demands that the Evangelical Lutheran Church in 
America should recognize the power of American Women to 
work for Christ in all the ways in which her sisters of the primi- 
tive Church and the Fatherland have labored so successfully. 

We respectfully request the General Synod to authorize the 
organization of deaconesses as aids to the pastor and church 
council in parish work, and their further institution to do such 
beneficent Christian work as the special needs of the Church 
may require. 

At the meeting of the General Synod in Harrisburg, Pa., it was 
resoltved "That the question of the establishment within onr 
Church of an Order of Deaconesses be referred to a special com- 
mittee, which shall report at the next convention of the General 
Synod. 

In the interests of history it may be stated further : (i) That 
Rev. F. P. Manhart, then pastor at Bloomsburg, Pa., initiated 
this line of action and wrote and moved each resolution as above 
quoted in the Conference, the Synod and the General Synod, 
(2) That the Deaconesses work as thus begun and established 
in the General Synod was the first in the world of the Kaisers- 
werth type that was founded and directly controlled by a general 
church body; and (3) That the Deaconess work in the General 
Synod was the first of the Kaiserswerth type to make the parish 
work of the deaconess the first in practical importance, though 
all Motherhouses connected with the Kaiserswerth Conference 
held that to be nearest to the office and work of the Deaconesses 
in the days of the Apostles. They also hold that the direct 
founding and control of Motherhouses by Synods is true to the 
ideal of the female diaconate as a church office with Apostolic 
sanction. 

The: Lutheran Publication Society. 

The origin of the Lutheran Publication Society is directly 
traceable to the Susquehanna Conference. On Dec. 23, 1853, the 
Conference adopted the following: 

Whereas, Our Church is yearly becoming more and more 



10 



T H K S L S I' K 1-3 A N N A S Y NOD 




Top row (left to right)— Rev. M. Rhodes, Rev. P. Born, D. D., Rev. S. G. 

Shannon, Rev. J. H. Weber, D. D. 

Lower row (left to right) — Rev. M. J. Alleman, Rev. G. H. Hemperiy, 

Rev. Geo. Parson, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IJ 

Americanized and consequently adopting the English language,, 
and 

Whereas, Our Church literature is principally in the German 
language and other denominations are using and imitating our 
best theological works, therefore, 

Resolved, That we agitate the idea of a Church Translating 
Society with a view of having the best works presented to us 
in an English dress by members of our own Church. 

On Jan. n, 1854, the Conference adopted a report prepared 
by Revs. D. H. Bittle, of Selinsgrove, P. Willard, of Danville 
and P. Born, of Sunbury. It consisted of twelve articles: 

1. A society shall be organized to be called The Lutheran 
Translation and Publication Society. 

2. Its object shall be to have translated and published in com- 
plete editions, in the English language, Orthodox Luttieran 
books, such as Arndt's True Christianity, Luther's Works, A 
Good Lutheran Commentary and other books on practical and 
dogmatic theology, chudch history, etc. 

3. 4, 5. Provide for a capital of $10,000 in stock at $10 a share. 

6. Provides for an Executive Committee to be elected by the 
stockholders. 

7. Provides for a ''Committee of Inspection" who shall examine 
all Mss. 

8. Provides for a bonded treasurer. 

9. Provides that the income, ''as soon as it shall have any," 
shall be used for the support of disabled and superannuated 
Lutheran ministers and indigent widows and orphans of Lutheran 
ministers, with the exception of six per cent, annual dividends 
to stockholders. 

10. Provides for the election of officers, the adoption of a 
constitution and the securing of a charter. 

11. All Mss. to be approved by the "Committee of Inspection." 

12. Operations to begin as soon as a sufficient number of 
stockholders is secured. 

The Conference directed that its members should interview 
other ministers and their members about taking stock. 

On Feb. 28, 1854, the Conference passed resolutions affirming 
that the Society "is loudly called for by the interests of the 
Lutheran Church in the United States," and that a convention 

Luth. Svnod— 2 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. Frank P. Manhart 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 1 9 

should be called, that May 7, 1854, and Zion Church, Harrisburg, 
Rev. C. A. Hay, pastor, would be a desirable time and place, 
for such a convention to organize the Society. 

At a meeting of the Conference on April 12, 1854, a committee 
was appointed "to draw up a memorial * * * to bring the 
matter before Synods and the Church." 

This committee consisting of Revs. D. H. Bittle, of Selins- 
grove, J. Winecoff, of Milton, and C. J. Ehrehart, of Shamokin, 
prepared and published this memorial or appeal. 

This Conference at the same meeting asked Rev. J. A. Brown, 
of Reading, the delegate of the East Pennsylvania Synod, to 
the Ministerium of Pennsylvania, to present this subject to it. 
He did so, on June 15, 1854, at Lancaster. 

On June 16, 1854, the committee reported "that they had 
issued an address and sent it forth to the world." 

On Sept. 23, 1854, the East Pennsylvania Synod, in session 
at Lewisburg-, as requested by the Conference, appointed a com- 
mittee consisting of Rev. G. Parson, D. PL Bittle and T \Y. W. 
Hermin and adopted this report calling for the approval of the 
Conference's appeal for a publication and fixing a day for a 
convention to organize it. 

This convention was held on May 1, 1855, in Trinity Church, 
Germantown, Rev. L. E. Albert, pastor. Here the Society was 
organized. It enlisted the official and personal support of the 
leading divines and laymen of the Church and became a great 
factor in the Church's life in America. 

Six times within a year the men of Susquehanna Conference 
acted upon this important matter. 

In addition to those named above Revs. R. A. Fink, F. Ruth- 
rauf, M. J. Alleman, J. Evans, ■ P. Sheeder, S. Yingling, H. 
Ziegler, Reuben Hill and C. C. Culler were members of the Con- 
ference. Clearly they were men of faith and vision. 

Reunions. 

Beginning with the year 1883, 400 years after Luther's birth, 
three annual reunions of Lutherans were held at Rupert, Pa. 
These reunions brought together members of General Synod 
and General Council churches. A careful estimate placed the 
number in 1883 at 6,000, and the number in 1884 somewhat 



20 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. S. M. Mountz Rev. Prof. A. R. Home. D. D. 




Rev. T. I. Stonecypher Rev. S. T. Taylor, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN" CHURCH 21 

higher. Meetings for the arrangement of these reunions were 
held in the home of Rev. D. M. Henkel. D. D.. in Catawissa and 
were shared in by Revs. IT. Myers and J. H. Neinian, of Cata, 
wissa, J. R. Groit, of Danville and F. P. Manhart, of Blooms- 
burg. Rev. Grott trained the singers who sang Bin Fesie Burg, 
and other hymns and anthems. 

The first reunion was addressed by Rev. W. Ashniead Shaeffer, 
D. D., of Wilkes-Barre, Rev. J. G. Morris, D. D.. LL. D.. of 
Baltimore and by some local pastors. 

After a few years reunions were again held in the Susquehanna 
region, at such places near Sunbury as Clement Park, Island 
Park, Shikillimmy, and Rolling Green, and at Edgewood Park, 
Shamokin and at Milton Park. 

The committees to arrange the reunions were composed of 
men of the General Synod and General Council. At many of the 
later reunions, Rev. J. M. Reimensnyder, D. D., as chairman of 
the committee, presided. Among the speakers who came from 
outside the territory were the following well-known divines of 
the Lutheran Church: Rev. T. L. Seip, D. D. ; E. J. Wolff, D. D., 
LL. D.; Jacob Fry, D. D., LL. D. ; Ja. A. Clutz. D. D. : T. 
B. Roth, D. D. ; G. W. Enders. D. D. ; C. W. Sandt, D. D. ; J. 
A. Singmaster, D. D. : E. E. Bachman. D. D. : J. B. Reimensnyder, 

D. D., LL. D. ; J. C. Seegers, D. D. : D. A. Day. D. D.. and PI. 

E. Jacobs. D. D., LL. D. 

The address of Dr. Jacobs at the reunion at Island Park on 
August 28, 1902. on The Permanent and the Changeable in 
Lutheranism, was so well received that 5,000 copies of it were 
printed. 

The last of these reunions was held at Milton Park in 1914. 

Trial of Rev. A. R. Horxk. 

At the organization of the Synod in 1867. R- ev - -^- R- Home, 
pastor of St. Mark's, in Williamsport, took a very active part, 
making important motions concerning matters of organization 
and serving on important committees and on the Board of the 
Gettysburg Seminary. 

At the meeting of the Synod in Selinsgrove, Pa., on June 3, 
1870 there was recived a letter for Synod from a committee of 
the Williamsport congregation requesting the adjournment of 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. C. F. Steck, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 23 

this body to Williamsport, for the consideration of charges to 
be preferred against Rev. A. R. Home. Accordingly the Synod 
convened in special meeting in Williamsport on June 21 and 22. 

A protest was sent by the Synod to the Synod of Pennsylvania 
on June 7, against the reception of Rev. Home, by that body. 
He, however, was received by it. 

At the special meeting on June 21 and 22 Rev. Home was tried. 
Rev. Morris, Officer of the Superintendent of Home Missions of 
the General Synod and the founder of the General Synod's 
Muhlenburg Mission in Africa, was selected to conduct the trial. 
Rev. P. Rizer, President of the East Pennsylvania Synod, had 
part in the trial. Rev. Horne had joined the Synod of Pennsylvania 
without a dismissal from the Susquehanna Synod, and had in- 
duced St. Mark's church to leave the General Synod and enter 
the General Council, along with doing these things he criticized 
the General Synod and lauded the General Council. A strong- 
minority opposed him in these matters and afterward organized 
St. Paul's. 

The general witnesses examined were : Mr. A. J. YVeise, Mr. 
Samuel Wagner, Mr. Samuel Harrington, J. C. Hill, Esq., Rev. 
P. Born, former President of Susquehanna Synod, Rev. P. Rizer, 
President of the East Pennsylvania Synod, and Rev. B. F. Alle- 
man, Secretary of the Susquehanna Synod. Later further testi- 
mony on specific charges was given by Messrs. S. E. Furst, Esq., 
J. C. Hill, Esq., J. B. Duble, J. J. Metzger, H. H. Otto, and A. 
J. Weise. 

The \erdict sustained the general charge and the three specifi- 
cations, unanimously. He was then, by series of five whereases 
and two resolutions, expelled "with the deepest regret," that 
the Synod was "constrained to take this step in reference to one 
who has been a member of our Synod since its origin and one of 
its founders." 

Dr. Horne continued in the Lutheran ministry until his death. 
He also attained considerable eminence as an educator, being 
City Superintendent of Schools in Williamsport, Pa., 1867 to 
1871, then principal of the Kutztown Normal School, and was 
further connected with educational work in Muhlenburo- Cole^e, 
and in the states of Louisiana, Texas, New York, etc. 

This trial is referred to onlv as an illustration of the various 



24 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. Isaiah Irvine 



Rev. Roy J. Meyer 




Rev. C. R. Bowers 



Rev. C. A. Lantz 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 25 

unhappy contentions and personal and synodical frictions and 
separations that followed the division of the General Synod in 
1866 and the organization of the General Council in 1867. 

These things are now, for the most part, only matters of history, 
since the strong tendencies are toward fraternity and co-opera- 
tion and the ultimate unity of all Lutherans in America. 

Missionaries. 

The men ordained by the Synod who have been foreign mis- 
sionaries are: Rev. Isaac Cannaday ordained in 1902 and since 
a missionary in India ; Rev. F. M. Traub, of St. Matthew's, 
Bloomsburg, ordained in 1903 and since a missionary in Africa; 
Rev. W. R. Miller, ordained in 1903, who died as a missionary 
in Africa: and Rev. J. D. Curran, ordained in 191 1 and since a 
missionary in Africa. 

Rev. J. M. Rice who was a missionary in Africa, after his 
return served the Buckhorn-Espy pastorate, 1867-1870. 

Rev. C. H. Brosius has been a member of the Synod since 1898. 
He was pastor of Grace, Sunbury, from 1898 to 1907. He has 
been a missionary in Liberia, Africa, since 1907. 

Delegates to Other Synods. 

For a number of years the practice obtained of exchanging 
delegates, or official visitors, with other Synods. These Synods 
were the East Pennsylvania. Central Pennsylvania, West Penn- 
sylvania and Allegheny. With the increasing number of men 
coming to the Synods as representatives of the general educa- 
tional, missionary and eleemosynary interests of the church and 
the shortening of the time covered by the annual conventions of 
the Synod, this exchange of official visits ceased. 

Banquets. 

In 1914 the North Branch Conference invited the Pastors' 
Association of the Danville Conference to co-operate in arrang- 
ing for a banquet for Lutherans. This was done. The first one 
was held on June 25, 1914, Augsburg Confession Day, in the 
Assemblv Rooms in Zion's, Sunbnrv. The speakers were : Prof. 



26 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. C. G. Bikle 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 27 

G. T. Ettinger, Ph. D., of Muhlenburg Colege and H. T. Domer, 
Esq., of Washington, D. C. 

On motion of Rev. H. D. Spaeth, D. D., of Williamsport, it 
was resolved to hold a banquet each year on or near Augsburg- 
Confession Day. Banquets were held at the same place in 191 5 
and 1916. The speakers in 1915 were: Rev. J. A. Singmaster, 
D. D., President of the General Synod and Mr. Harry Hodges, 
of Philadelphia. The speakers in 1916 were: Rev. John.W. Rich- 
ards, of Philadelphia and Judge A. W. Johnson, of Lewisburg, 
Pa. 

The Susquehanna Synod. 

The people who constitute the membership of the Susquehanna 
Synod, are mostly, through by no means exclusively the descend- 
ants of immigrants from Germany. At the time of its organiza- 
tion in 1867 there was not a congregation in it in which Ger- 
man was more than partially used in the public services, and 
such congregations were quite few. 

The churches of the Synod naturally show traces of all of the 
traits and peculiarities of thorough Americans and thorough 
Lutherans whose experiences during the various generations 
since the beginnings of their life in Colonial America have been 
natural and largly inevitable when all of the elements of their 
race, language, faith, culture and political, social and religious 
environment are duly considered. 

The Pennsylvania Synod. 

When the Patriarch, Henry Melchior Muhlenberg, came to 
America in 1742, he found the Lutheran people here in scattered 
and, for the most part, from the standpoint of the Church, very 
unfavorable conditions. 

They had no common organization, they had few worthy pas- 
tors, were often imposed on by unworthy men who claimed to be 
ministers, were troubled by abounding sects and sectarians, with 
a marvelous variety of vagaries and notions, while they were 
further seriously handicapped by the lack of knowledge of the 
English language, the lack of schools, etc., etc. 

Muhlenberg richly deserves all of the high credit given him 
for his work as a founder and organizer, and to this day he re- 



28 



THE SUSOUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. John McCron, D. D. 




Rev. J. E. Dale 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN" CHURCH 29 

mains the strongest personal influence and factor that has ap- 
peared in the history of the Lutheran Church in America. 

Muhlenberg organized the Ministerium or Synod of Pennsyl- 
vania, in 1748. Naturally, during the periods that followed, its 
growth was slow. 

The Revolutionary War and the influence of the deism, 
rationalism, infidelity and confessional laxity were factors in re- 
tarding the normal and healthful development of the Lutherans 
in America. 

Still, the Lutheran Church lived, grew and gradually acquired 
organizations measureably adequate to her needs and develop- 
ment. By 1820 there were six synods and in that year farseeing 
men like Drs. S. Schmucker, Benjamin Kurtz and G. Shober, led 
in the organization of the General Synod and thus the Lutheran 
Church was saved from disintegration and absorption. 

To Hartwick Seminary, started in 1797, and at its present lo- 
cation in 181 5, was added the Seminary at Gettysburg in 1826, 
the Ohio Synod and the Southern Seminaries in 1830 and the 
College at Gettysburg in 1832. Thus adequate foundations were 
being" laid for the educational work essential to the well-being 
of the Lutheran Church in America. 

In 1824, the churches of the Pennsylvania Synod west of the 
Susquehanna formed the West Pennsylvania Synod, and united 
with the General Synod, thus largely offsetting the weakening 
of the General Synod by withdrawal of the Pennsylvania Synod 
in 1823. 

Synod of East Pennsylvania. 

In 1842, the Synod of East Pennsylvania was formed by 
ministers and congregations of the Pennsylvania Synod. Rev. 
J. P. Shindel, of Sunbury, was the first regular President of this 
Synod. It united with the General Synod. 

The Susquehanna Conference of this Synod was organized 
in 1845 an d included the territory now covered by the Susque- 
hanna Synod. 

As a Conference it included ministers and congregations that 
were among the most active, devoted and successful in the Synod. 

The East Pennsylvania Synod met at the following places in 
the Susquehanna Conference: Milton, 1846; Selinsgrove, 1848; 



30 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. F. W. Meyer 



Rev. H. C. Michael 




Rev. W. G. Thrall 



Rev. H. W. Miller 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



31 



Danville, 1851 ; Lewisburg, 1854; Hughesville, 1856; Bloomsburg, 
1858; Sunbury, i860; Milton, 1863; and Danville, 1866. 

The following members of the Susquehanna Conference or 
Synod were: Presidents of the East Pennsylvania Synod; Revs. 
J. P. Shindle, J. Ruthrauff, G. Parson, R. A. Fink, J. R. Dimm, 
J. Swartz and T. C. Billheimer. 

The Susquehanna Conference was distinguished for its mis- 
sionary zeal and for its deep interests in the general welfare of 
the Church. 

It was through this missionary spirit that the Synod has had 
its steady growth, as it was through its interest in the Lutheran 
Church as represented by the General Synod and by Lutherans 
in other bodies, that its influence has been both broad and deep. 

The Susquehanna Synod. 

The following accounts of the origin and organization of the 
Synod are taken from its minutes of 1867. 




Rev j. L. Smithdeal 



Rev. Geo. Eicholtz 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




/.J.R.\ REV. P. H. WILLIAMS 



Three Generations 



PROCEEDINGS 

of the 
Convention Which Formed the 

SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

MOXTOURSVIIXE. Nov. 5, 1867 P. M. 

The Susquehanna Conference having adjourned sine die, and 
its former members, both clerical and lay, being assembled in 
Convention for the purpose of forming a Synod, a temporary 
organization was effected by electing Rev. A. R. Home. Presi- 
dent, and Rev. E. J. Wolf, Secretary, of the meeting. 

Prayer was offered by Rev. E. J. Wolf. 

After a long discussion, relating to the legitimacy of members 
of this Convention, the following was adopted: 

Resolved, That all the ministers and lay delegates present, who 
with their respective congregations, purpose connecting them- 
selves with the proposed new Synod, but have not yet been dis- 
missed from the East Pennsylvania Synod, shall be entitled to 
seats as members of this Convention and be permitted to enter 
into the organization of the said new Synod, and shall be re- 
garded as regular members of the same as soon as their cer- 
tificates of dismission from the Synod to which they now belong 
shall have been presented. 

In accordance with this resolution, the following ministers 
and lay delegates were constituted members of the Convention : 





List of Members. 




Clerical. 


Lay. 


Residence. 


J. Evans, 


I. S. Sterner, 


Lewisburg. 


G. W. Hemperly, 


T. H. Engel, 


Sunbury. 


A. W. Lentz, 


Matthias App, 


Montgomery Station 


E. A. Sharretts, 


Jonas Yeakle, 


Hughesville. 


George Eicholtz, 




Lairdsville. 



(33) 

Luth. Svnod — 3 



34 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 





Rev. S. F. Tholan 



Rev. P. B. Fasold 




Rev. U. Myers, D. D. Rev. O. D. S. Marcley 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



35 



A. H. Shertz, 
G. M. Rhodes, 
E. J. Wolf, 

J. L. Smithdeal. 
J. B. Keller, 
J. B. Shoup, 
S. Domer, 
J. M. Rice, 

B. F. Alleman, 
A. R. Home, 
D. Beckner, 
Joseph Hillpot, 
H. B. Winton. 



Philip Cresy, 
A. J. Grantz, 
William Follmer, 
William Lewars, 

Joseph Wolf, 

X. S. Tingley, 
Jacob Bidelman, 
David M. Kieffer, 
Stephen Baldy, 
A. M. Sanders, 
Joseph Solliday, 



Danville. 
Turbotville. 
Montoursville. 
Shamokin. 

Selinsgrove. 

Espey. 

Bloomsburg. 

Williamsport. 

Catawissa. 

Tersev Shore. 



(To these names, those of Prof. Peter Born, of Selinsgrove; 
Rev. George Parsons, of Muncy, and Rev. M. L. Shindel, of 
Selinsgrove, though they were not present, should be added, as 
they were counted members and appointed on standing com- 
mittees.) 

The following officers were elected : President, Rev. Joshua 
Evans; Secretary, Rev. E. J. Wolf, and Treasurer, Mr. J. H. 
Engel. 

On motion of Prof. S. Domer, the following action was taken: 

Whereas, The members of the Susquehanna Conference were 
dismissed from the East Pennsylvania Synod, at its late meeting, 
held in Pottsville, Pa., with the view to the formation of a new 
Synod within the bounds of said Conference ; and 

Whereas, According to appointment, we have now met in 
Convention to form said Synod, therefore, 

Resolved, (i) That we now and hereby constitute ourselves 
a Synod, to be called "The Susquehanna Synod of the Evangeli- 
cal Lutheran Church." 

(2) That we adopt the Constitution and By-Laws of the East 
Pennsylvania Synod until a new Constitution shall have been 
prepared and adopted. 

Historical Sketch. 

Rev. E. A. Sharretts. from Committee Xo. 3, offered the fol- 
lowing: 



36 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. Samuel Domer, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 2)7 

The Committee appointed "to prepare a short historical 
sketch of the Susquehanna Conference and a statement ol the 
reasons leading to the formation of the Susquehanna Synod" 
respectfully offer the following: 

From the examination of the records of Conference, which 
the limited time allowed us, permitted, we learn that the Susque- 
hanna Conference was organized on the 15th of January, A. D. 
1845. According to previous notice the following brethren, viz. : 
Revs. Geo. Parsons, Eli Schwartz, Charles Witmer, Henry Zieg- 
ler, and John Kohler, met at the house of Air. Simon Follmer, 
in Milton, Jan. 15, 1845, when a preamble and resolutions, look- 
ing to the formation of a Conference, were offered by Bro. Wit- 
mer, and adopted. Rev. H. Ziegler was appointed to draw up a 
Constitution. On the folllowing morning the Constitution was 
presented and adopted with amendments. 

This was the commencement of an organization whose opera- 
tions have effected a change for good in the entire moral aspect 
of a wide extent of country, numbering at first only five minis- 
ters, with a territory stretching as far and as wide as the limits 
of the present Synod, and with a membership numerically small 
those brethren labored on earnestly and in hope : and by the 
blessing of God succeeded in the accomplishment of a work 
whose results the great day of eternity alone will fully disclose. 

As the years passed those large pastoral districts were divided ; 
accessions were made to the ministerial roll ; greater efficiency, 
because of these accessions, displayed itself, until the Susque- 
hanna Conference became a power in the Church, the influence 
of whose actions reached far beyond the boundary that marked 
its geographical limits. 

The names of Father J. P. Shindel, F. Ruthrauff, Eggero, 
Ever, Weiser, Zeigler, Evans, Fink, Parson, Willard, &c, some 
of whom have passed from the church militant to the church 
triumphant, and others of whom are now fathers in the church, 
appear upon the roll of names, the seeds of divine truth germi- 
nated and flourished, the little rill has become a stream, widen- 
ing and deepening, until to-day the Susquehanna Synod, the 
result of that little work of faith, begun by the little band 
of brethren in a private house in Milton, stands out before the 
Church and the world as a fact, whose organization commencing 



38 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 





"Rev. Isaac Cannady 



Rev. A. W. Baker 



Rev. John Jacob Albert 




Snvder 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 39 

in prayer and faith is yet, we trust, to tell for good upon the 
character and destiny of many precious immortal souls. 

The formation of this Synod grew out of an earnest desire to 
promote more effectually the great work in which the brethren 
were engaged — that of saving souls and building up the King- 
dom of Christ. Believing that this work could be done as a 
Synod more efficiently than as a Conference, efforts were made 
from time to time for years, looking to the formation of a Synod 
upon the territory of Conference, without any successful result, 
until within the last year, such efforts were made, and with 
such unanimity of purpose, as have culminated in the accom- 
plishment of the long-cherished and earnestly desired purpose. 

And now with grateful hearts, remembering the great good- 
ness of our Heavenly Father in the past, remembering the great 
success with which He has crowned the efforts of the brethren 
of Conference in winning souls to Christ, in building churches, 
in forming pastoral charges, and in developing the resources of 
the Church on the territory of Conference, and taking courage 
for the future, in the name of our God we will set up our ban- 
ners and go forward, we trust, to glorious victory over the world, 
the flesh and the devil. 

Respectfully submitted, 

E. A. SiiARRirrTs, 
S. Dovifr, 

A. R. Horxk. 

i 

Constitution. 

The Synod, in 1867, resolved to adopt the constitution and 
by-laws of its mother Synod, that of East Pennsylvania, until a 
constitution could be prepared and adopted. The committee to 
frame this constitution consisted of Revs. Prof. P. Born, M. L. 
Shindel, and D. Beckner. 

This committee reported at the "First Regular Meeting of the 
Susquehanna Synod," held in Zion Lutheran Church, April 2^- 
27, 1868. The constitution was adopted on April 25. In the 
main it followed the principles of the Formula of Government 
set forth officially by the General Synod. 

The doctrinal position was stated thus: "The Synod receives 
and believes the Scriptures of the Old and Xew Testaments to be 



40 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. J. M. Steck, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 41 

the inspired word of God and the only infallible rule of faith 
and practice; and receives and believes the Augsburg Confession 
to be a summary of the fundamental doctrines of the Word of 
God." 

In the ordination service the candidate was required to assent 
to the following: 

"The fundamental doctrines of the Word of God are correctly 
taught in the doctrinal articles of the Augsburg confession, 
viz: The existence of God; the Trinity of the Godhead; the 
Deity of our Lord Jesus Christ; the universal depravity of men; 
the Saviour's vicarious sufferings and death; the justification ot 
the sinner by faith in the Son of God; the necessity of the Holy 
Spirit to regenerate and sanctify the soul; the holy catholic (or 
universal) church; the divine institution of the ministry; the 
sacraments of Baptism and the Lord's Supper ; the necessity of 
repentance and good works; the return of Christ to judge the 
world in righteousness ; the resurrection of the dead ; the ever- 
lasting blessedness of the righteous ; the eternal punishments 
of the wicked." 

This constitution provided that all synodical business should be 
transacted by the Synod as a whole, that is, by the ministers and 
the lay delegates, thus making no provision for a ministerium, 
as all other Synods in the General Synod at that time did. 

This constitution, also, made no provision for licensure. These 
two features were its outstanding peculiarities. 

The Synod has at various times amended and revised its con- 
stitution, but has made no marked departure from its original 
character, save that its doctrinal basis, like that of the General 
Synod, became from time to time more definitely and explicitly 
Lutheran. Its present basis, like that of the General Synod, 
is expressed as follows : 

Doctrinal Basis. 

With the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Fathers, the 
Susquehanna Synod receives and holds the Canonical Scriptures 
of the Old and New Testaments as the Word of God and the 
only infallible rule of faith and practice ; and it receives and 
holds the Unaltered Augsburg Confession as a correct exhibi- 
tion of the faith and doctrine of our Church as founded upon the 
Word. 



42 



(IK SUSQUEHANNA SVXOD 




Rev. J. E. Byers 




Rev. J. W. Shannon 



OK THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 43 

The Secondary Symbols. 

While the Susquehanna Synod regards the Augsburg Confes- 
sion as a sufficient and altogether adequate doctrinal basis for the 
co-operation of Lutheran Synods, it also recognizes the Apology 
of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalkald Articles, the Small 
Catechism of Luther, the Large Catechism of Luther, and the 
formula of Concord as expositions of Lutheran doctrine of great 
historical and interpretative value, and especially commends the 
Small Catechism as a book of instruction. 

In advance of corresponding changes, set forth by the Gen- 
eral Synod in its book of Ministerial Acts, the Susquehanna 
Synod in 191 3 incorporated the doctrinal basis as above stated 
in the ordination vow and in statement required of a minister 
on his reception from another communion. 

A thoroughly revised constitution, prepared by a committee, 
and embodying the doctrinal features just named, is now before 
the Synod. [Adopted 19 17.] 

The practices of the pastors and congregations have always 
been such as would justify their claim to be Lutheran, yet there 
has been a steady advance toward greater uniformity in teach- 
ing, worship and practice, thus evincing a steady development 
towards a riper consistency in matters of faith and life as un- 
derstood by Lutheran Christians. 

It is noticeable that during the earlier period when a certain 
class of "special meetings" was held by some churches, yet 
catechization w r as practiced not only as "a time-honored custom," 
but for its recognized value and Lutheran character as a method 
of indoctrination and Christian nurture. The "special services," 
now held, as a rule center about Holy Week and culminate in the 
Easter Festival. 

The division of the Synod at its beginning into two Confer- 
ences, called North Branch and West Branch respectively, has 
remained unchanged. 

Relation to the General, Synod. 

The Synod, at a special meeting held in Muncy, on Feb. 11 
and 12, 1869, adopted the proposed amended Constitution of 
the General Synod and elected delegates to its next convention. 
This Constitution is still that of the General Synod, except for 



44 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. H. B. Winton 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 45 

the artic es on doctrinal basis and representation, which were 
amended at the convention in Atchison, Kansas, in 1913. 

The delegates to the General Synod were : Rev's. G. W. Hem- 
perley, S. Domer, and M. L. Shindel, and Messrs. J. H. Engle and 
J. Beidelman. They reported that the "Synod's adoption of the 
Doctrinal Basis of the General Synod cleared the way for a 
cordial reception of your delegates. The name of the Susque- 
hanna Synod was at once placed on the roll of Synods consti- 
tuting the General Synod." 

This meeting of the General Synod in Washington in 1869, 
closely following its weakening by the withdrawal of Synods in 
1866, and by the organization of the General Council in 1867, * s 
memorable for its adoption of a revised constitution with a 
clearer doctrinal basis, and the changing of most of the old 
"Societies" into the "Boards" that have since been such import- 
ant factors in the work of the General Synod. 

Incorporation. 

The Synod was incorporated on Nov. 5, 1869, by the Court of 
Northumberland County. Revs. J. R. Focht, G. W. Hemperley, 
and G. Parson, as a committee, prepared the charter. This report 
in 1869, is as follows: "In the preparation of the Articles of In- 
corporation of this Synod, the chairman of your committee ex- 
amined a large number of charters of different Lutheran Synods, 
and finally made the Charter of the Central Synod the basis of 
die incorporation of this Synod. A petition with the Articles of 
Incorporation, was presented to the Court (of Northumberland 
County) at the August Term, by L. T. Rohrbach, Esq., and 
passed the fifth of November last. The cost is one dollar and 
sixty cents ; ten cents for paper and one dollar and fifty cents, 
which is half price, for recording the Charter." 

At the same time the seal was approved. It was secured 
"through the kind assistance of J. K. Schryock, General Agent 
of the Lutheran Publication Society." It cost eight dollars. 

First Ordination. 

,On Monday evening, April 27, 1868, during the closing session 
of the "First Regular Meeting of the Susquehanna Synod," an 
ordination service was held. Rev. E. A. Sharretts, the presi- 



46 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. C. R. Botsfoni 



Rev. L. W. Walter 




Rev. J. E. Zimmerman 



Rev. O. E. Sunday 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 47 

dent, "preached from Acts 20:28, after which the following 
brethren were solemnly ordained to the Gospel ministry : 

Rev. B. F. Alleman, Bloomsburg, Pa. 
Rev. T. C. Billheimer, Watsontown, Pa. 
Rev. Joseph Hillpot, Cogan's Run, Pa. 
Rev. J. G. Griffith, Williamsport, Pa. 
Rev. J. A. Adams, Mt. Carmel, Pa. 
Rev. J. P. Neff, M. D., Liberty, Pa." 

Of these men, Rev. E. A. Sharretts, D. D. (age 92), who 
has been a member of the Synod since its beginning; Rev. B. F. 
Alleman, D. D., of Lancaster, Pa., and Rev. T. C. Billheimer, 
D. D., Emeritus Professor of Gettysburg Theological Seminary, 
are still living. 

Proposed Union of Synods. 

In 1872, the East Pennsylvania Synod passed the following: 
"That the Susquehanna Synod be kindly and affectionately in- 
vited to return to this body." Regarding this invitation, after 
careful consideration, the Synod, "by a decided majority,'' passed 
the following: Resolved, That we reciprocate the regard of the 
Synod of East Pennsylvania, but do not think that the time has 
yet arrived when it would be desirable for us to seek a re-union." 

In 191 5, the Susquehanna Synod, invited the Synod of Cen- 
tral Pennsylvania to unite with it. Each Synod appointed a 
committee of conference on this matter, and its consideration is 
still pending. 

Growth. 

The growth of the Synod is indicated broadly by these figures: 
Confirmed membership in 1867, 4,500: confirmed membership in 
1917, 21.000. It is to be deeply regretted that while the number 
of ministers is much larger than at the beginning, it has not in- 
creased as has the membership or as the needs demand. 

With the steady development of the towns and cities in her ter- 
ritory, the congregations in these places have so grown that they 
constitute the bulk of the Synod's strength. The lack of a cor- 
responding growth in the country pastorates of the Synod, and 
111 some instances their material decline in numbers and financial 
strength, has presented some serious problems. The city of 



48 



THE Sl'SOUEHAXXA SYXOD 




Rev. J. B. Focht, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 49 

Williamsport is the outstanding instance of the Synod's growth 
in a city. ■ In 1867 one congregation, St. Mark's with its pastor, 
Rev. Dr. A. R. Horn, co-operated in the formation of the 
Synod. In 1870, the pastor and congregation left the Synod, 
which then was without a congregation in Williamsport. Be- 
ginning with St. Paul's, and including Messiah in South Wil- 
liamsport, the Synod now has in Williamsport six vigorous con- 
gregations with 3,000 confirmed members, or about one-seventh 
of the strength of the Synod. 

Beginning in Hazleton in 1874, as a mission congregation 
with fourteen members, Trinity Church numbers 780 confirmed 
members. Rev. John Wagner, D. D., was the organizer and has 
been the only pastor. These specific instances of development in 
the cities and towns in Synod's territory must suffice. 

Field for Growth. 

The Synod has the opportunity for steady growth wherever 
her established congregations are found. It has also, a large 
territory where but little has yet been done, and where mission 
work of an aggressive and sympathetic type is urgently needed. 
The lack of ministers is the chief difficulty. 

Susquehanna Female College. 

With the founding of Missionary Institute at Selinsgrove, Pa., 
in 1858, was associated the founding of Susquehanna Female 
College at the same place. The first principal was Prof. C. C. 
Baughman, formerly principal of the Hagerstown Female Sem- 
inary. He was followed in 1864 by Rev. S. Domer, D. D., who 
was succeeded in 1869 by Prof. Wm. Noettling, Pd. D., who 
served until 1873 when it was practicolly merged with Mission- 
ary Institute, which then became co-educational. 

During the period of its activity, it was encouraged and fos- 
tered by Susquehanna Conference and Susquehanna Synod. 

Many young women within the bounds of the Conference and 
Synod and from without were educated there and thereby made 
more active and useful in the Church. 



Luth. Synod- 



50 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. L. H. Waring, Ph.D. 



Rev. J. R. Sample 








Rev. J. A. Flickinger 



Rev. Joel Swartz, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



51 



A Coincidence:. 

Rev. Joshua Evans, pastor at Lewisburg, was a delegate to the 
General Synod in 1868. While attending that body in Zion 
Church, Harrisburg, Pa., in May, he had aparalytic stroke 
from the effects of which he died in January, 1869. 

Rev. I. H. McGann, pastor at Lewisburg, was a delegate to 
the General Synod in 1907. AVhile attending it in Zion, Sun- 
bury, in May, he was stricken with paralysis, from the effects of 
which he died the same day. 




Rev. Moses Grossman 



52 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Presidents of the Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary Society 
of the Susquehanna Synod 



WOMAN'S HOME AND FOREIGN 
MISSIONARY SOCIETY 



The Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary Society of the 
Susquehanna Synod was organized at Northumberland in 1881. 
The accompanying statement of places of meeting, officers, mem- 
bership and receipts, in part, epitomizes the history and fine re- 
sults of this excellent organization of women of the Synod. 

It has been among the most energetic and liberal in work and 
giving of the Synodical societies in the General Synod. 





Miss Mary E. Lowe 



Miss Jessie Brewer 



(53) 



54 THE SUSQUEHANXA SYXOD 




Rev. J. Yutzy, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



A9UO]\ 



•sj3qiu3j\; 



W 



x c n ~~, ^- ^t- Tt- <^\c q o\ x 
(<"< K O it, fO - ex ^-^i-<^ — 
hh ^vo o vo oc w o ■ " - 



O _ X O <^ N it; tN DC C "3- eo 

X K M ir, ir, J k (^ - — In M vo 

01 01 a^UTrf ir,\0 1- i^ it, Is O i-i 0) CO 

HHHMh HhHOlMf^Ol 



o k k - o o u~. d ?i - x "i - o> ^-x o a o 
oi£>~ h c x ?i c tkc okcc ^o-r-r 
m ^- wx ^ in incc wooaaao h h h w h 



OX r^OVO w WO 

"T" "^x d (*: ^ ?i <o 



>>>>>>>>>> 



afesg^jjjjj ; 



£|l|rf >>>>>|f||3|^^^ ^Qg 















en 


en 
















— 


illson. . 
illson. . 


+j +j +j -<■ 

en en at i* 

U be bo. 5 

if if p< u 


- u 

r~ en 


o <"^ <~ <~ <~ . ■ . " OJ 
k w w w w :/. b£ be be m 


en 






--'_I'_I>>> 



>,>>>> ~ — 



^ < *< < § § § ^ § § C C x xrx < < < < — - — - x x x tyj 



^^^^-.^^^tf 



^-c ^c «--: «-: ^-. ^ .s-5 «=*; *^ 



en en en en 



^ ^ ^ «-s <: ^ 



■g ~ "g f qj x x x x x ££ *S -g.S.i 

173 X X X T3 X X Q - 



fcfefefctf^££ 



^ <i 2: ^-. § ^ ^r. ^-, ^r. ^: -< ^-: -- ^: ^ ^c ^: ^ § £§ ^ § § ^ «^ 



1 2 2 »j? : | 



— ^ bfl 
'> 2 = b- 



J3 u 

TZL — 
> C 
cr. ,£3 

i=x 






I^r?'^^^^^-^-.^^^^'^^- - J^^'^ s£w 



^'B 






^^a^ffi 



oooocMcst^oooo^oo o $}&&8i9;8!8i&& R o g g g § § 



•■* B3 A OC oc X X X X X £ X X X X X X X X X XX 5 & 



uaquunx 



I h D ^^t U-.O NX -; 



»3 Tf \r.\C. KX ^0 h « ro ^t u"-0 

______ „ ?) ? | -., rs] ?1 rv) 0) 



56 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. S. P. Hughes Prof. Henry Ziegler, D. D. 




















1 

.1 






■^ppn Mmm 






L^ 


* JH 


i 


II 


; 





Rev. Prof. C. J. Ehrehart Rev. G. B. Ely 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



57 



A3UO K 



M- "vf W 01 \r. C\ 01 -vf i^ C\ 
<N in -rf oi 0\ N GO 05 or: — 
01 01 c^cocoxi-roxr^ir; 



— OOC "^t" ""^ i-O _D Cn 01 lc 

H"- lC7 J V vo 0C Tf n CM r^ O 01 u-. lt, 

-i h-i CM 01 01 01 Ol 0) N -vj 



to be be be be be be be be be 






u<yo>(u<L>a><L><D<D(i; 



^25;^--;^:^^;^ 



X _ u u '- u u u u 



Q > X X X X X X X x 
-X^' >>>>>>>> 




y. x v. y. y. 

V- !_ Ih - |_ 

§ -< -< r§ g 


W K X 

± ± ~ 

^ -"- ~. 





g S ; ; : -3-3 »S« 

C C ti V< U'n n J3 Jil 

m g =ex w ^ ^ S 

— — — ^—^— ,-^-^~ if ~ 

to to ai to ui oi s.s.J.J 



§ «=> .> ^c 



y.-i § 



IsillffitgEQl 



o c c 

oo.o 





HH 


01 


~~ 


^•lOVO 


o> 


£ 


£ 


2P 


o r c 



c 

or: 

o 






58 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. J. P. Neff, M. D. 



FEDERATION OF THE MEN'S 

ORGANIZATIONS OF 

THE SYNOD 

In connection with the meeting of the Synod in south Williams- 
port in 1 9 1 2, a convention was held in St. Paul's, Williamsport, 
at which the mens' organization in various churches in the Synod 
formed a Federation. 

Each year since, the Federation has met in connection with the 
Synod, and has published its minutes with those of the Synod. 
The meetings have been characterized by informing discussions, 
while an outstanding feature has been a banquet on the first even- 
ing. The attendance, especially at the evening meeting has been 
large. The Presidents have been Benjamin Apple of Sunbury 
1912-1916, and Dan Smith of Williamsport 19 16- 




Rev. B. A. Peters 



(59) 



6o 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 





Rev. R. G. Barmen, D. D. Rev. S. E. Bateman, M. D., Sc. D 




Rev. Chas. R. Streamer 



Rev. J. T. Glaclhill 



FIFTIETH ANNUAL CONVENTION 
OF THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Montoursville, Pa., May 8-11, 1917 

ORDER OF BUSINESS. 

I. Regular Order. 

i. Opening Prayer 6. Report of Standing* Committees 

2. Calling of Roll y. Report of Special Committes 

3. Reading of Minutes 8. New Business 

4. Special Order 9. Adjournment 

5. Unfinished Business 

II. Special Order. 
First Day— Tuesday, May 8th 

Evening Session 7.30 

Vesper Services - - Pastor Loci and Officers of Synod 
Synodical Sermon Rev. F. P. Manhart, D.D., President of Synod 
Holy Communion 

Second Day — Wednesday, May 9th 
Morning Session 9.00 

Half Hour with the Bible - J. H. Barb D. D. 

Opening of Synod 

Reception of Delegates and Commissioners 

President's Annual Report 

Election of Officers 

Reception of Minutes and other Documents 

Afternoon Session 2.00 

Appointment of Committees 
Report of Statistical Secretary 

(61) 



62 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 





Rev. H. A. Dietterich. 



Rev. F. M. Traub 




Rev. M. M. Albeck 



Rev. S. Bottiaer 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 63 

Report of Financial Secretary 

Report of the Treasurer 

Report of Committee on the State of the Church 

Vacant Pastorates 

Evening Session 7.30 
Vesper Services 

Rev. H. C. Rose and Rev. J. M. Reimensnyder, D. D. 
Greetings from the Pennsylvania Minister ium, 1748, 

Rev. H. Douglas Spaeth, D. D. 
Greetings from the East Pennsylvania Synod, 1842 

Rev. A. Pohlman, M. D,, D. D. 
Greetings from the Central Pennsylvania Synod, 1855, 

Rev. A. PL Spangler, D.D. 

Third Day— Thursday, May 10th 

Morning Session 9.00 

Half Hour with the Bible F. L. Bergstresser, D. D. 

Report of Directors and Delegates 

Election of Directors and Delegates 

Bible Study - Rev. J. A. Hartman 

Afternoon Session 2.00 

Educational Institutions 
Educational Society 
The Eaymen's Movement 
Report of Committees 

Evening Session 7.30 

Vesper Service Rev. Rene H. Williams and Rev. W. F. Rentz 
Address— Rev. Prof. Henry Eyster Jacobs D. D., EL. D., S. T. D. 

Fourth Day — Friday, May nth 
Morning Session 9.00 

Half Hour with the Bible Rev. M. Stanley Kemp, Litt.D. 

Report of Examining Committee 

Statistical Secretary's Report on Apportionment 

Reports of other Committees 

Selection of Place od: Next Meeting 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. J. A. Adams 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 

Afternoon Session 2.00 



65 



Report of Committee on Sunday Schools 

Address on Sunday Schools - - C. R. Botsford 

Report of Committee on Constitution and By-Laws 

Report of Committee on Resolutions 

Evening Session 7.30 
Vesper Services 

Rev. Charles Leonard, D. D., and Rev. S. F. Tholan 
Ordination Sermon - Rev. John Wagner, D. D. 

Ordination of Candidates for the Gospel Ministry 
Adjournment 




Rev. J. A. Hartman 



Rev. E. B. Kil'irrer 



Luth. Svnod — 5 



456 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. John D. Wagner, D.D. 



ALPHABETICAL LIST OF PASTORS 



Adams.. J. A 

Albeck. M. M 

Anspach, J. G 

Anspach, J. M., D.D 

Alleman. B. F.. D.D. 
Alleman, M. T.. D.D. 



Arncld. C. E 

Aughey. A. H 

Aurand. C. M., D.D. 

Babb. A 

Baker. A. W 

Bannen. R. G.. D.D 
Barb, T. H.. D.D. ... 



Barnitz. F. A 

Bateman. S. E.. M.D. 

Batter sby. G. S 

Becker. D. R 

Beckner. D 

Boll. A 



Elysburg 1868-18 

Follmer" 1883-1? 

Mt. Carmel 1867-187/' 

Millville 1897-1899 

Berwick 1899-1903 

Milton [836-1837 

Lewisburg 1831-1844 

Williamsport, St. Paul's .1892-1904 

Bloomsburg 1867- ^"_ 

Sunbury 1849-185 : 

Northumberland 1848-1852 

Bloomsburg 1845- 1846 

Danville 1846-1848 

Lewisburg- 1849-1852 

Follmer 185 1 -1852 

West Berwick 1912-1917 

Muncy 1869-1872 

Berwick 1 893-1898 

Folmers 186 -18 2 

Scranton 1912-date 

S. Williamsport 1891-date 

Selinsgrove 1896-18 

Hughesville 1899-1912 

\ilas 1912- 

. Lairdsville 18 -1862 

Mt. Carmel 1862-:- - 

. Plum Creek 1889-1890 

WiTmsport, St. Matthews 1895- 1899 

. Lairdsville 1883-1884 

Oriole [872-1875 

. Mt. Carmel 1892-1899 

. Catawissa 1867-1869 

.Williamsport, St. John's .1887-1890 
I 67 • 



68 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. J. S. Griffith, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 69 

Belmer, H. B. . Selinsgrove 1 874-1881 

Benson, C. C Plum Creek 1891-1893 

Williamsport, St. John's . 1893-1897 
Bergeman, P. E Wilkes-Barre, First Ger- 
man English 1900-1902 

Bergner, J. B Follmer 1873-1876 

Bergenstresser, F. L Montgomery 1913-date 

Berry, F. E Plum Creek 1870-1872 

Northumberland 1872- 1876 

Bikle, C. G Williamsport, St. Paul . . 1904-1917 

Billheimer, T. C, D.D. . . . Watsontown 1866-1869 

Bittle, D. H Selinsgrove 1853-1854 

Bodine, J. A'. Millville 1881-1883 

Briar Creek 1883-1885 

Born, P., D.D Sunbury 1851-1859 

Shamokin Dam 1882- 1884 

Botsford, C. R Northumberland 1898-1906 

Bowers, C. R Berwick 1906-1915 

Sunbury I 9 I 7 _ 

Bottiger. C. S Berwick 1916-date 

Boyer, S. R Follmer 1846-1851 

Bricker, J. ; K . .Elysburg 1884-1887 

Bright, J. A Tersey Shore 1878-1882 

B rosins. C. H Sunbury, Grace 1898- 1907 

Brubaker, Jno., D.D \vis 1908- 1909 

Burkhalter, J. C Lewisburg 1869-1875 

Burnman, A Milton 1871-1873 

Byers, J. E Bloomsburg 1903-1917 

Burnite. J. C Danville 1916- 

Chamberlin, E. A Buck Horn 1911-1917 

Cooper, A. E White Deer Valley 1900-1905 

Jersey Shore 1911-date 

Cressman, M. S., D.D Muncy 1885-1888 

Criley, W. W Lewisburg 1875-1882 

Crist, LB Turbotville 1890-1894 

Muncy Creek 1897-1903 

Cross, J. M Berwick 1904-1905 



70 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. C. Huber, D. D. 



Rev. W. H. Hibbish 





Rev. C. Fickinger 



Rev. J. C. Fasold 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH JY 

Culler, C. C 'Milton 1854-1860 

Follmer 1858-1860 

Curtis, S Catawissa 1870-1872 

Dale, J. K Williamsport, Redeemer . 1915-date 

Day, C. H Muncy Creek 1 909-191 1 

Derr, W. H Immanuel 1908-1910- 

Diener, J. F Catawissa 1879-1882 

Deitterich, E. E Clinton Twp., St. John . . 1916-date 

Dietterich, H. A White Deer Valley 1881-1887 

Briar Creek 1880-1881 

Dillenbeck, A. L, Mt. Carmel 1914-date 

Dimm, J. R., D.D., LX.D. Bloomsbitrg 1859-1867 

Catawissa 1864-1866 

Shamokin Dam 1884- 191 5 

Dise, B. S Avis 1905-1908 

Domer, S., D.D Selinsgrove 1855-1866 

Shamokin 1873-1874 

Dunlap, W. C, D.D Montoursville 1901-191 1 

Earhart, M. J Lairdsville 1863- 

Easterday, G. H Millville 1904-1905 

Ehrhart, C. J Shamokin 1853-1857 

Mt. Carmel 1855-1856 

Elysburg Supply 

Eichholtz, G Lairdsville 1862-1872 

Muncy Creek 1872-1878 

Engle, F Foilmers, Milton, Muncy 

Creek 1813 

English, J. S Watsontown 1904- 1905 

Ely, G. B Turbotville 1915-date 

Erhart, A. B Muncy Creek 1887-1888 

Espich, C Sunbury 

Evans, J Lewisburg 1866-1869 

Ever, W. J Catawissa 1837-1875 

Eyra, Milton 



Faber, G. E Follmer 1889- 1 J 

Fahs, W. H Milton, Christ 1894-1896 



7-2 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. J. A. Wirt, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 73 

Fasold, J. C Muncy Creek 1904-1906 

Fasold, P. B Buck Horn 1895-1900 

Felker, A. C Plum Creek 1887-1! 

Muncy Creek 18881! 

Fetterolf, R. F . .White Deer Valley 1892-1895 

Fickinger, C Jersey Shore 1900-1911 

Fink, R. A., D.D Lewisburg 1856-1865 

Fischer, M. H., Ph.D Wilkes-Barre, Grace .... 1905-1909 

Williamsport, St. Luke . . 1910-date 

Fischer, W. E-, D.D Shamokin 1893-date 

Fishburn. M. H Watsontown 1890-1894 

Fitzgerald, W. R Wilkes-Barre, Grace 1914-date 

Fleck. L. X Oriole 1892-1894 

Flick, H. H Lairdsville 1893-1894 

Flickinger, J. A Oriole 1878-1881 

Shamokin 1881-1885 

Milton. Christ 1889-1894 

Focht, J. B., D.D Shamokin Dam 1880-1882 

Selinsgrove 1899- 1904 

Berwick < Supply) 1906 

Focht, J. R Plum Creek 1868-1870 

Forscht, A. C Plum Creek 1900- 1903 

Fortney. G. W Turbotville 1895-1900 

Francis, J. M., D.D Sunbury 1908-1916 

Freas, W. S., D.D Hughesville 1880-1882 

Fritch, G. W Plum Creek 1904-1906 

Frederick, T. J Plum Creek 1880-1882 

Oriole 1884-1888 

Fry, Buck Horn 

Fultz, H. C Wilkes-Barre. First Ger- 
man English 1905- 1 9 10 

Garman, W Milton, Trinity 1826-1830 

Muncy Creek 1829- 1832 

Games, S. A St. John, Clinton Twp. . . 1910-1915 

Gearhart, E. M Sunbury. Trinity 1906-1912 

Montoursville 1912-1916 

Gift, F. U Scranton 1895-1899 

Williamsport, St. Mathews 1 899-1 904 

Gilbert, F Plum Creek 1 909-1912 

Gladhill, T. J Jersey Shore 1891-1898 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 







. | 




Rev. John A. Bright 



Rev. I. H. McGann, D.D. 




Rev. M. Hadwin Fischer, Ph.D. Rev. I. P. Zimmerman 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 75 

Glanding, W. M. B Scranton 1902-1903 

Glaze, A. R Espy 1889-1892 

White Deer Valley 1896-1899 

Goetz Elysburg 

Goetz, L Williamsport, St. Matthew 189 1- 1895 

Good, M. F Williamsport, St. Matthew 1913-date 

Graves, U Milton, Trinity 1868- 1870 

Danville 1870-1874 

Griffith, J. G Montoursville 1868-1873 

Oriole 1882 

Williamsport, Redeemer .1899-1903 

Grossman, M Lairdsville 1895-1897 

Guiney, J. B Immanuel 1911-1915 

Hackenberg, J. H Muncy 1875-1877 

Hall, P Catawissa 

Haithcox, H. C, D.D. . . . Muncy 1872-1875 

Shamokin 1875-1877 

Harding, W. H Williamsport, St. John . . 1897- 1899 

Harmon, H. E Espy 1901-1902 

West Berwick 1902- 19 12 

Harsh, G. E Plum Creek 1883-1885 

Hartman, J. A Snnbury. Grace 1907-date 

Hassinger, J. E. F Seybertsville 18S4-1889 

Haus, L. R Muncy Creek 1907-1908 

Havice, M. H Muncy Creek 1889-1891 

Milton, Christ 1897- 1904 

Montgomery 1 904-1913 

Heilman, P. A., D.D Bloomsburg 1890- 1896 

Heim, Geo Lewisburg 1808-1828 

Hemperly, G. W #< Sunbury, Zion 1867-1876 

Henderson, J. W Mt. Carmel 1891-1893 

Henkle, D. M., D.D Catawissa 1882-1883 

Herbst, J Sunbury, Zion's, Selins- 

grove, Lewisburg 1802 

Hibbish, W. H Lairdsville 1892-1893 

Buck Horn 1900-1902 

Sunbury, Trinity 1914-date 

Hillpot, J Blooming Grove 1871- 



76 



THE SUSQUEHAXXA SYNOD 




Rev. E. J. Wolf, D. D., IX. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH /7 

Hoffman. J. L Scranton 1 903-1912 

Hooper, P. S Shamokin 1877-1881 

Home, A. R., D.D Follmer 1863-1865 

Williamsport 1 867-1 871 

Houseman, J. H Lairdsville 1897-1901 

Huber, C, D.D Follmer 1876-1882- 

Huber, E., D.D Danville 1 860-1 861 

Hughes, S. P Williamsport, St. Paul . . 1881-1891 

Williamsport, St. Luke . .1900-1901 
Hutchison, J. W Lairdsville 1885-1887 

Elgen, Wm Lewisburg 1803-1807 

Irvine, I Williamsport, St. John . . 1890- 1893 

Kautz, B. F Vilas 1 908-1912 

Lairdsville 1912-date 

Keller, J. B . Shamokin 1866-1870 

Watsontown 1 870-1 871 

Kelly, Wm Espy 1876-1877 

Buck Horn 1876-1878 

Kern, F Wilkes-Barre, First Ger- 
man English 1903-1905 

Kemp, M. S Watsontown 1913-date 

Kessler, P Bloomsburg 1819-1828- 

Catawissa 1819-1828 

Killinger, E. B Northumberland 1876-1885 

Shamokin Dam 1 874-1 881 

Kingsley, R. F Catawissa 1872-1873 

Kline, L. H. W Espy 1 903-1906 

Knittle, J. F Williamsport, Redeemer . 1 903-191 1 

Koser, J. A Northumberland 1885-1888 

Muncy 1888-1895 

Kreamer, J. P. F Follmer 

Krout, J. D Wilkes-Barre, Grace .... 1 909-1913 

Kump, W. A Mt. Carmel 1906-1914. 

Lahr, W. B Williamsport, St. Luke . . 1899-1900 

Lake, J. W., D.D Montgomery 1899-1904 

Lane, P. P Danville 1861-1865 

Lantz, C. A, Plum Creek 1916-date 



-x 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. W. F. Steck 



Rev. F. L. Bergstresser, D. D. 




Rev Charles Leonard, D. D. 



Rev. J. M. Francis, D. D. 



OE THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 79 



Lau, D. B., D.D Muncy Creek 1892- 

Liberty : 895- 

Lehnian Elysburg 

Muncy Creek 1781- 

Leisenring, E. H., D.D. . . . Catawissa !875- 

Muncy 1878- 

Lewisburg 1884- 

Lentz, A. W White Deer Valley 1879- 

Jersey Shore 1876- 

Leonard, C, D.D Selinsgrove 1912- 

Lohr, L. L., D.D , . Williamsport, St. Johns . . 1900- 

Mack, P. S Watsontown 1871- 

Manhart, F. P., D.D Bloomsburg 1881- 

Millville 1906- 

1908- 

Shamokin Dam 19 16 

Manifold, J. H. C Oriole 1895- 

Espy 1899- 

Turbotville 1901- 

Marclay, O. D. S Mt. Carmel 1877- 

Bloomsburg 1878- 

McCron, J., D.D Bloomsburg 1875- 

McCutcheon, W. R Seybertsville 1881- 

McGaiin, I. H., D.D Oriole 1888- 

Lewisburg 1894- 

McLain, D. E Liberty 1901- 

McLinn, M. E Bloomsburg 1896- 

Meyer, F. W Williamsport, St. Matthew 1904- 

Michael, H. C Northumberland 1906- 

Miller' A. B Liberty . . . 1873-1890 and 1912- 

Miller, Charles, Follmer 183 1- 

.Miller, G. P Milton, Trinity 1831- 

Miller, W r ., D.D Wilkes-Barre, Grace .... 1898- 

Minemeir; J. J Espy 1897- 

Monntz, S. M Lairdsville 1*889- 

Montgomery 1891- 

Mullen, A. O Watsontown 1894- 

Musselman, J. H Danville 1909- 



893 
900 

795 

878 

884 

890 

881- 

878 

917 

907 

874 



907 
916 
late 
899 
901 

913 
878 
881 

^77 
882 

892 
907 
909 

903 
908 
916 
914 

835 
835 
904 

899 
891 

895 
904 

916 



8o 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. W. E. Fischer, D. D. 



()!• THE EYAXGFXICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 8 1 

Myers, U., D.D Muncy Creek 1869-1871 

Follmer 1871-1872 

Turbotsville 1871-1879 

Catawissa 1883-date 



Xeff, I. P., M.D Liberty 1868-1873 

Montoursville 1873- 1879 

Orwig, S. P Watsontown . 1873- 1878 

Montgomery 1 890-1 891 

Parson, G., D.D Muncy Creek 1844-1865 

Hughes ville 1850- 1865 

Milton 1865-1868 

Williamsport, St. Paul . . 1875-1876 
Sunbury, Zion 1877-1884 

Plitt, Frederick Follmer, Catawissa 

Raver, C. W Seybertsville 

Reese, J. W Lainlsville 1875-1877 

Reeser, T. F Williamsport, St. Paul . . 1877-1881 

Reichardt, C. J. A Wilkes-Barre, First Ger- 
man English 191 l-date 

Reimensnyder, J. J Milton 1S51-1854 

Reimensnyder, J. M., D.D. . Espy 1872-1875 

Milton, Trinity 1887-date 

Repass, J . Muncy Creek 1816-1823 

Follmer 1817-1820 

Milton 1811- 

Reynolds, H. O Espy 1906-1908 

Williamsport, Redeemer . .1912-1915 

Rhodes, G. M Danville 1866-1870 

Rhodes, M., D.D., LL.D. . . Sunbury, Zion's 1862-1867 

Rice, J. M Buck Horn 1867-1870 

Espy 1867-1870 

Rizer, P Sunbury, Zion's 1859-1861 

Rose, H. C, Lewisburg 1913-date 

Rudisill. A. J Mt. Carmel .1899-1906 

Rupley, D. E Espy 1894-1896 

Montgomery 1897- 1899 

Luth. Svnod — 6 



82 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




H. E. Harman 



Rev. C. E. Arnold 





"% Rev. W. J. Wagner 



Rev. A. R. Glaze 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 83 

Rutherford, W. L Montoursville 1895-1900 

Ruthrauff, F Milton 1845-1850 

Lewisburg 1846- 1849 

Sassaman, I. S Northumberland 1916- 

Sahm, M. O. T Espy 1887-1890 

Buck Horn 1886-1888 

Sample, J. R Muncy Creek 1882-1887 

Montoursville 1887- 1893 

Schmucker, M. L Turbotville 1887-1889 

Schoch, W. H [ersey Shore 1882-1891 

Schrader, F. H Lairdsville 1906- 1909 

Oriole 191 1-1913 

Sechrist, C. W Mt. Carmel 1879-1881 

Buck Horn 1892-1894 

Espy 1892-1895 

Seebach, J. F Lewisburg 1907-1912 

Shadow, M. V Espy 1878-1880 

Seybertsville 1 880-1 881 

Mt. Carmel 1881-1884 

Shaffer, J. W Plum Creek 1898-1900 

Shannon, J. W., D.D Elysburg 1 887-1917 

Shannon, S. C Watsontown 1882-1885 

Sunbury, Zion's, 1885-1889 

Sharretts, E. A., D.D Bloomsburg 1854-1859 

Buck Horn 1859-1860 

Danville 1863-1866 

Muncy 1866-1868 

Hughesville 1866-1869 

Espy 1878-1886 

Briar Creek 

Shertz, A. H Plum Creek 1860-1867 

Liberty 1 890-1 891 

Shellhard, H. J Follmer 

Shinier, H. D Watsontown 1905- 191 2 

Shindel, J. C Mt. Carmel 1 884-1891 

Shindel, M. L., D.D Selinsgrove 1867-1874 

Shamokin Dam 1872- 1874 

Danville 1874-1806 



84 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. J. H. Barb, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 85 

Shindel. Jeremiah Bloomsburg 1830- 1837 

Catawissa 

Shindel, J. P Sunburv 1812-1851 

Elysburg 1S12-1850 

Selinsgrove 1820- 1846 

Shoffner, J. R Lewisburg 1883-1884 

Sikes, J. R Mt. Carmei 1867-1867 

Sill, George Follmer 1869-1870 

Turbotville 1 869-1 871 

Smithdeal. J. L Montoursville 1867-1868 

Snyder, G. F Williamsport, Redeemer . 1894-1899 

Spreclier, S. P Milton 1863-1865 

Staever. C. F Muncy Creek 1836-1839 

Follmer 1 836-1 845 

Milton 1837-1842 

Staler, F. \Y Watsontown 1885-1890 

Stauffer, L. G Plum Creek 1906-1908 

Sunburv, Trinity 1912-1914 

Steck, C. T., D.D Shamokin 1889-1893 

Steele. J. M., D.D Jersey Shore 1870-1875 

South Williamsport 1883- 1887 

Williamsport, St. John . . 1883-1887 
Williamsport, Redeemer . 1891-1894 

Follmer 1894-1904 

Steck. W. F Muncy 1895-date 

Stock. Carl Milton, Follmer, Elysburg, Catawissa 

Muncy Creek 1801-1812 

Stover. J. M Plum Creek 1912-1915 

Stover. M. J Danville 1856-1860 

Strail, G. D Buck Horn 1906-1910 

Streamer, C. R Liberty 1914-date 

Studebaker, E Liberty 1861- 

Stroup, G. W White Deer Valley 1887-1891 

Sunday, O. E Espy 1909-1916 

Montoursville 1916-date 

Swartz, E Milton 1842-1844 

Swartz, J., D.D Williamsport, St. Paul . . 1873-1875 

Taylor, S. J., D.D Selinsgrove 1905-1911 

Tholan, S. F White Deer Valley 1910-date 



IIIK SI SOl'KH ANNA SVND1. 





Rev. M. L. Heisler 



Rev. J. V. Bodine 




Rev. E. E. Dietterich 



Rev. J. C. Koser 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 87 

Thrall, W. G South Williamsport 1887-1891 

Titus, T. T Milton 1861-1863 

Trostle, W. A Plum Creek 1894-1897 

Williamsport, St. Luke . . 1897-1899 

Oriole 1899-1907 

Twelve, J. C Plymouth 1910-1912 

Uber, T. B Oriole 1 909-191 1 



Unsrer Sunbur 



'& 



Waage, F Milton 1826-1829 

Follmer 

Wagner, H Benton 

Wagner, I. H., D.D Williamsport, St. Luke . .1902-1909- 

Wagneif, J., D.D Hazleton 1874-date 

Wagner, W. J Muncy Creek 1894-1896 

Buck Horn 1903-1905, 

Follmer 1913-date 

Walter, C Lewisburg 1807-1808 

Walter, C. E., D.D Hughesville 1896-1898 

Walter, J-, Selinsgrove 1819-1820 

Walter, L. W Danville 1906-1909 

Wampole, J. F Elysburg 1858-1868 

Mt. Carmel 1858-1859 

Shamokin 1858- 1865 

Catawissa 1862-1864 

Waring, L. H., Ph.D. Scranton 1899-1902 

Warner, A. N., D.D Montoursville 1880-1882 

South Williamsport 1882- 1883 

Williamsport, St. John . .1882-1883 

Northumberland 1888-1898 

Weaver, A. H Liberty 1892-1894 

Weaver, Win Bloomsburg 1850-1852 

Weber, J. H., D.D Sunbury, Zion's 1889-1908 

Weeter, J. W., D.D Williamsport, St. Matthew 1 908-1913 

Weiner, D. S .Liberty 1892-1894 

Weiser, Reuben, D.D Selinsgrove 1846- 1848 

Wells, L. D., D.D Shamokin 1885-1889 

Whitman, H. N Lairdsville 1878-1880 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. W. W. Criley, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 89 

Willard, P Danville 1850-1856 

Elysburg 1850-1853 

Williams, J. T Muncy Creek 1839-1843 

Follmer 1856-1858 

Wiliiams, J. R Shamokin 1870-1873 

Bloomsburg 1873-1875 

Williams, R. H. . Hughesville 1912-date 

Winecoff, Jesse Selinsgrove 1848- 1852 

Lewisburg 1852-1855 

Follmer I 853-i855 

Winton, H. B Jersey Shore 1866-1869 

Wirt, J. A.. D.D Hughesville 1883-1895 

Winner, Charles Bloomsburg 1844- 1845 

Catawissa 1844-1845 

Wolf, E. J., D.D.. LL.D. . .Follmer 1866-1868 

Tnrbotville 1866-1869 

Yost. T. J Montoursville 1894-1895 

Yutzy. J. D.D Selinsgrove 1882-1896 

Zerger. T. E Millville 1907-1908 

Zimmerman. A. K Plum Creek 1872- 1879 

Watsontown 1879- 1882 

Zimmerman. LP Montoursville 1883-1887 

Milton, Christ 1904- 19 16 

Zimmerman. J. E Avis 1902-1905 

Follmer 1905-1913 



90 



thp: susouehaxxa synod 




Rev. J. W. Lake, D. D. 



Rev. W. H. Schoch 




Rev. I. S. Sassaman 



Rev. B. F. Kautz 



PASTORATES AND THE PASTORS 
WHO HAVE SERVED THEM 

Berwick. 

Anrand, C. M., D.D., 1893-1898^ 

Albeck, M. M., 1899-1903 

Crass, J. M., 1904-1905 

Focht, J. B., D.D 1906 

Botsford, C. R., 1906-1915 

Bottiger, C. S., .„ 1916- 

Bloomsburg. 

Plitt, Frederick, 

Engle, F., 1810-1818 

Kessler, P., 1819-1828 

Shindel, Jeremiah, 18301837 

Ever, W. J., 1837-1844 & 1846-1850 

Witmer, Chas., 1844-1845 

Alleman, M. J., 1845-1846 

Weaver, Wm., 18501852- 

Sharretts, E. A., D.D., 1854-1859 

Dimin, J. R., D.D., LL.D., 1859-1867 

Alleman, B. F., D.D., 1867-1872 

Williams, J. R., 1873-1875 

McCron, J., D.D., 1875-1877 

Marcley, O. D. S., 1 878-1881 

Manhart, F. P., D.D., 1881-1889- 

Heilman, P. A., D.D., 1890-1896 

McLinn, M. E., 1896-1903 

Byers, J. E., 1 903-1916 

Wolf, N. S, 1917- 

Buck Horn. 
Frey, Rev. 
Eyer, W. J. 
Sharretts, E. A., 1859-1860= 

(91) 



92 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. J. M. Reimensnyder, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 93 

Rice, J. M., 1867-1870 

Reimensnvder, J. M., 1872-1872 

Kelly, Wm, 1876-1878 

Sharretts, E. A., 1878-1886 

Sahm, M. O. T., 1886-1888 

Glaze, A. R., 1889-1892 

Sechrist. C. \\\, 1892-1894 

Fasold, P. B., 1895-1900 

Hilbish, W. H-, 1900-1902 

Wagner, W. J., 1903-1905 

Strail, G. D 1906-1910 

Chamberlin, E. A., 191 1-1917 

Cdtawissa. 

Steck, J. C St. John's to 1790 < circ. I 

Plitt, Frederick. 
Hall, Peter. 
Kessler, Peter 

Shindel, Jeremiah 1830-1837 

Ever, W. J., 1837-1875 

AYampole, J. F., 1862-1864 

Dimm, J. R., D.D 1864-1866 

Beckner, D 1867-1869 

Curtis, S., 1870-1872 

Kingsley, R. F., 1872-1873 

Leisenring, E. PL, D.D., 1875-1878 

Diener, J. F., * 1879-1882 

Henkle, D. M., D.D., 1882-1883 

Myers, U., D.D., 1883-date 

Danville. 

Swartz, Elias, 1845- 

Alleman, M. J., 1846-1848 

Willard, P., 1850-1856 

Stover, M. J., 1856-1860 

Huber, E., D.D., 1860-1861 

Lane, P. P., 1861-1863 

Sharretts, E. A., D.D., 1863-1866 

Rhodes, G. M., 1866-1870 

Graves, U., 1870-1874 



•■94 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. M. F. Good 



Rev. A. W. Lentz 




Rev. John Wagner, D. I). 



Rev. W. S. Freas, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 95 

Shindel, M. L., D.D... 1874-1906 

"Walter, L. W., . . 1906-1909 

Musselman, J. H., 1909-1916 

Burnite, D. C, 1910- 



Blysburg. 

All prior to 1813 



Ulrick, 

Lehman, 

Goetz. 

Stock. 

Shindel, J. P 1813-1850 

Willard, P 1850-1853 

Ehrhart, C. J 1853-1857 

Wampole, J. F., 1858-1868 

Adams, J. A, 1868-1883 

Bricker, J. K„ 1884-1887 

Shannon, J. W., D.D 1887-1917 

Bspy-Briar Creek. 

Sharretts, E. A., D.D. 

Dimm. J. R.. D.D 1859-1867 

Truckenmiller, D. S., 1863 

Rice, J. M., 1867 

Reimensnvder, J. M. 3 D.D 1872-1875 

Kelly, Wm 1876-1877 

Sharretts, E. A., D.D., 1878-18SO 

Shadow, M. \^ 1878-1880 

Dietterick, H. A., 1 880-1 881 

Bodine, J. V., 1883-1885 

Sahm, M. O. T., 1887-1890 

Glaze, A. R., 1889-1892 

Sechrist, C. W.. 1892-1895 

Rupley, D. E., 1894-1896 

^linemeier, J. J., 1897-1899 

Manifold, J. H. C, 1 899-1 901 

Harman, H. E., 1901-1903 

Kline, L. H. W., 1903-1906 

Reynolds, H. O v 1906-1908 

Sunday. O. E., 1909-1916 

Miller, H., 1917- 



96 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. T. R. Dimm, D. D., LL. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OJ 

Follmer, or Pottsgrove. 
ShellharcL H. J. 
Stock, G. C. 
Kreamer, J. P. F. 
Plitt, Frederick. 

Engle, Frederick, 1811-1817 

Repass, 181 7-1826 

Waage, Fred. 

Garman, William, 1829-183 1 

Miller, Charles 1831-1835 

Staver, C. F., 1836- 1845 

Boyer, S. R., 1846-1851 

Alleman, M. J., D.D., 1851-1852 

WeincofT, Jesse, I 853-i855 

Williams, J. T., 1856-1858 

Culler, C. C, 1858-1860 

Babb, A., D.D 1860-1862 

Home, A. R., D.D'., 1863-1865 

Wolf, E. J., D.D 1866-1868 

Sill, George 1869- 1870 

Myers, U., D.D 1871-1872 

Bergner, J. B 1873-1876 

Huber, Conrad, 1876-1882 

Adams, J. A 1883-1888 

Faber, G. E 1889-1894 

Steck, J. M, D.D 1894-1904 

Zimmerman, J. E., 1905-1913 

Wagner, W. J 1913-date 

Ha clcton. 
Wagner, J., D.D 1874-date 

Hughesville. 

Parson, G., D.D., 1850-1866 

Sharretts, E. A., D.D 1866-1869 

Aughe, A. H., 1869-1872 

Heisler, M. L., 1872-1879 

Freas, W. S., D.D., 1880-1882 

Wirt, J. A.. D.D., 1883-1895 

Walter, C. E. 3 D.D., 1896-1898 

Luth. Synod — 7 



9 8 



T H I', S U S Q U lv HANNA SYNOD 




Rev. T. C. Billheimer, D. D. Rev. J. H. Musselman 




Rev. ?,. F. Alleman. D. P. 



Rev. W. R. Fitzgerald 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 9^ 

Barb, J. H., D.D., 1S99-1912 

Williams, R. H., 1912-date 

Immanuel, 

Derr, W. H., 1 908-1910 

Guinney, J. B., 1911-1915. 

Grenninger, F. R., (Supply), I 9 I 5~ 

Jersey Shore. 

Winton, H. B., 1866-1869- 

Steck, J. M., 1870-1875. 

Lentz, A. W., 1876-1877 

Bright, J. A., 1878-1882- 

Schoch, W. H., 1882-1891 

Gladhill, T. J., 1891-1898 

Fasold, J. C, 1898-1900 

Fickinger, C, 1900-191 1 

Cooper, A. E., 191 i-date 

Laird si Me. 

Barnitz, F. A., 1860- 

Earhart, M. J 1863- 

Eicholtz, G 1863-1872- 

Miller, S. S 1874 

Reese, J. W., 1875-1877 

Whitman, H. N., 1878-1880 

Batersby, G. S., 1883-1884 

Hutchison, J. W., 1885-1887 

Mountz, S. M., 1 889- 1 89 1 

Hilbish, W. H., 1892-1893 

Flick, H. H., 1893-1894 

Grossman, M., 1895-1897- 

Houseman, J. H., 1 897-1 901 

Schrader, F. H., 1906-1909. 

Kautz, B. F., 1912-date 

Lewisburg. 

Herbst, John, 1802- 

Ilgen, Wm., 1803-1807 

Walter, Conrad, 1807-1808 

Heim, Geo., 1808-1828 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. J. M. Anspach, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IOI 

Anspach, J. G., 1831-1844 

RuthraufT, F., 1846-1849 

Alleman, M. J., D.D., 1849-1852 

Winecoff Jesse, 1852-1855 

Fink, R. A., D.D., 1856-1865 

Evans, J., 1866-1869 

Burkhalter, J. C, 1869-1875 

Criley, W. W., D.D., 1875-1882 

ShofTner, J. R., 1883-1884 

Leisenring, E. H., D.D., 1884-1890 

Seiber, L. L., 1890-1893 

McGann, I. H., 1894-1907 

Seebach, J. F., 1907-1912 

Rose, H. C, 1913-date 

Liberty. 

Studebaker, E., 1861- 

Neff, I. P., M.D., 1868-1873 

Miller, A. B., 1873-1890 

Shertz, A. H., 1 890-1 891 

Weaver, A. H., 1892-1894 

Lau, D. B., 1895-1900 

McLain, D. E., 1 901-1909 

Weimer, D. S., 1910-191 1 

Miller, A. B., 1912-1914 

Streamer, C. R., 1914-date 

Millville. 

Bodine, J. V., 1881-1883 

Albeck, M. M., 1897-1899 

Easterday, G. H., 1905-1905 

Zerger, J. E., 1907-1908 

Manhart, F. P., D.D \ ^6-1907 

{ 1908-1916 
Peters, B. A., I 9i7- 

Milton, Trinity. 
Eyre, "1 

Stock, V Supplies 1807-181 1 

Engle, J 

Repass, P., 1811- 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 





Rev. J. Brubaker, D. D. Rev. M. S. Cressman, D. D. 




Rev. H. C. Haittacox, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 103 

Waage, F., 1826-1829 

Garman, W., 1829-1830 

Miller, C. P., 1831-1833 

Anspach, J. G. (Supply), 1836-1837 

Steover, C. F., 1837-1842 

Swartz, E., 1842-1844 

Ruthraufl, F., 1845-1850 

Reimensnyder, J. J., 1851-1854 

Culler, C. C, 1854-1860 

Titus, T. T., 1861-1863 

Sprecher, S. P., D.D., .' 1863-1865 

Parson, George. D.D., 1865-1868 

Graves, U., 1868-1870 

Buhrman, A '. 1871-1873 

Gotwald ,W. H., D.D., LL.D., 1873-1887 

Reimensnyder, J. M., D.D., 1887- 

Milton, Christ 

Flickinger, J. A., 1889-1890 

Romig, M. S., 1891-1894 

Fahs, W. H.. 1894-1896 

Havice, M. H., 1897-1904 

Zimmerman, I. P., 1904-1917 

Richter. J. A., 191 7- 

Montgomcry. 

Orwig, S. P., 1890-1891 

Mountz, S. M., 1891-1895 

Rupley, D. E., 1897-1899 

Lake, J. W., D.D., 1899-1904 

Havice, M. H., 1904-1913 

Bergstresser, F. L., D.D., 1913-date 

Montoursville. 

Smithdeal, J. L., 1867-1868 

Griffith, J. G., 1868-1873 

Nerl, I. P., M.D., 1873-1879 

Warner, A. N., D.D., 1880-1882 

Zimmerman, I. P., 1883-1887 

Sample, J. R„ 1887-1894 

Yost, T.'j., 1894-1895 



104 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. A. E. Cooper 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 105 

Rutherford, W. L., 1895- 1900 

Dunlap, W. C, D.D., 1901-1911 

Gearhart, E. M., 191 1-1916 

Sunday, O. E., 1916- 

Mount Carmel. 

Ehrhart, C. J., 1855-1856 

Wampole, J. F., 1858-1859 

Heisler, W. L 1859-1862 

Barnitz, F. A., 1862-1867 

Sikes, T. R., 1867-1867 

Adams, J. A., 1867-1876 

Marclay, O. D. S 1877-1878 

Sechrist, C. W., 1879-1881 

Shadow, M. Y 1881-1884 

Schindel, J. C, 1884-1891 

Henderson, J. W., 1891-1893 

Becker, D. R 1892-1899 

Rudisill, A. J., 1899-1906 

Kump, W. A., 1906-1914 

Dillenbeck, A. L., 1914-1917 

Muncy. 

Sharretts, E. A., D.D., 1866-1868 

Aughey, A. H., 1869-1872 

Haithcox, H.C., D.D., 1872-1875 

Hackenberg, J. H., 1875-1877 

Leisenring, E. H., D.D., 1878-1884 

Cressman, M. S., D.D., 1885-1888 

Koser, J. A 1888-1895 

Steck, W. P., 1895-date 

Muncy Creek. 

Lehman 1781-1795 

Stock, V. G. C, 1801-1812 

Engle, F., 1813- 

Repass, j ., 1816-1823 

Garman, Wm 1829-1832 

Miller, C. P., 1832-1834 

Staver, C. F., 1836-1839 

Williams, Jno. T 1839-1843 



io6 



THE) SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 





^^^BH 




*% *^ . • 


■ '"■'.-. ■ 


It: > jitfl 




; 




Rev. J. B. Keller 



Rev. P. S. Hooper 




Rev. A. B. Miller 



Rev. J. F. Wampole 



Or THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 10/ 

Parson, G., D.D 18 '4-1865 

Myers, U., D.D 1869-1871 

Ei'chholtz, Geo,. 1872-1878 

McCutcheon, W. R 1878-1881 

Sample, J. R., 1882-1887 

Erhart, A. B., 1887-1! 

Felker, A. C, 1888- 1 J 

Havice, M. H 1 889-1891 

Lau, D. B., 1892-1893 

Wagner. W. J., 1S94-1896 

Crist, I. B., 1897-1903 

Fasold, J. C, 1904-1906 

Haus, L. R., 1907-1908 

Day, Chas. H 1909-191 1 

Stonecypher, J. I., 1915-date 

Northumberland. 

Shindel, J. P., 1817- 

Weiser, Reuben, 

Alleman, M. J., 1848- 1852 

Berry. E. E 1872-1876 

Killinger, E. B., 1876-1885 

Koser, J. A., 1885-1888 

Warner, A. N., D.D 1SS8-1898 

Botsford, C. R 1898-1906 

Michael, Ii. C., 1906-1916 

Sassaman, I. S., - 1916- 

Oriolc. 

Battersby. G. S., 1872-1875 

Flickinger, J. A 1 878-1881 

Griffith, J. G., 1882-1882 

Frederick, T. J., 1884-1888 

McGann, I. H., D.D., 1888-1892 

Fleck, L. X., 1892-1894 

Manifold, J. H. C., 1895-1899 

Trostle, W. A., 1899-1907 

Uber, T. B., 1 909-191 1 

Schrader, F. H., 191 1-1913 

Meyer, Roy, J., I 9 1 7~ 



ioS 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYXOD 




Rev. W. H. Gotwald, D. D., LL. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 100, 

Plum Creek. 

Shertz. A. H 1862-1867 

Focht, J. R 1868-1870 

Bern-, E. E 1870-1872 

Zimmerman, A. K., 1872-1879 

Frederick, T. J., 1880-1882 

Harsh, G. E., 1883-1885 

Felker, A. C, 1887-1888 

Bateman, S. E.. M.D., Se.D 1889-1890 

Benson, C. C, 1891-1893 

Trostle, W. H 1894-1897 

Shaffer, J. VV 1898-1900 

Forschi, A. C 1900-1903 

Fritch, G. W., 1904-1906 

Stauffer, L. G 1906-1908 

Gilbert, Frank 1909-1912 

Stover, J. M 1912-1915 

Lantz, C. S 1916-date 

Scmnton. 

Gift, F. V.. 1895- 1899 

Waring, L. H., Ph.D 1899-1902 

Glanding, W. M. B 1902-1903 

Hoffman, J. L 1903-1912 

Baker, A. W 1912-date 

Selins grove. 

Herbst, John -1802 

Walter, Jacob - 1819 

Shindel. J. P 1820-1846 

Weiser, Reuben, 1846-18-18 

Winecoff, Jesse, 1848-1852 

Bittle. Daniel H # 1853-1854 

Domer, Samuel. D.D 1855-1866 

Shindel. M. L.. D.D 1867-1874 

Belmer, H. B 1874-1881 

Yutzy, J., D.D 1882-1896 

Barb. J. H.. D.D 1896-1899 

Focht, J. B.. D.D.. 1899-1904 



HO THE; SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. Joshua Evans 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH III 

Taylor, S. J., D.D., 1905-191 1 

Leonard, C, D.D., 1912-1917 

S ha 1110 kin. 

Ehrehart, C. J 1853-1S57 

Wampole, J. F., 1858-1865 

Keller, J. B., 1866-1870 

Williams, J. R., 1870-1873 

Domer, S., D.D., 1873-1874 

Haithcox, H. C, D.D., 1875-1877 

Hooper, P. S., 1877-1881 

Flickinger, J. A., 1881-1885 

Wells, L. D., D.D., 1885-1889 

Steck, C. L., D.D 1889-1893 

Fischer, W. E., D.D., 1893-date 

Shamokin Dam. 

Shindel, M. L., D.D., 1872-1874 

Killinger, E. B., 1874-1880 

Focht, J. B., D.D 1 880- 1 882 

Born, P., D.D., 1882-1884 

Dimm, J. R., D.D 1884-1915 

Manhart, F. P., D.D 1916-date 

South Williams port. 

Warner, A. N.. D.D 1882-1883 

Steck, J. M., D.D., 1883-1887 

Thrall, W. G., 1 887-1891 

Bannen, R. G., D.D., 1891-date 

Sunbury, Grace. 

Brosius, C. H., 1898-1907 

Hartman, J. A., 1907-date 

Sunbury, Trinity. 

Gearhart, E. M., 1906-1912 

Staurler, L. G., 1912-1914 

Hilbish, W. PL, D.D., 1914-date 



I 12 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. C. Zinsmeister, D. D. Rev. h. L. Lohr, D. D. 




Rev. D. E. Rupley Rev. P. A. Heilman, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 113 

Suiiburv, Zion. 



All prior to 1791 



Herbst, John, . . 

Unger, 

Geistweiter 

Espich, Christian 

Shindel, J. P., /. 1812-1851 

Alleman, M. J., 1849-185 1 

Born, P., D.D 1851-1859 

Rizer, P., . 1859-1862 

Rhodes, M., D.D., 1862-1867 

Hemperly, G. W., 1867-1876 

Parson, G., D.D 1877-1884 

Shannon, S. G 1885-1889 

Weber, J. H., D.D., 1889-1908 

Francis, J. M., D.D., 1908-1916 

Bowers, C. R., I 9 I 7 - 

Turbotville. 

Wolf, E. J., D.D -1869 

Sill, G. 1869-1871 

Myers, U., D.D 1871-1879 

McCool, W., 1880-1883 

Schmncker, M. L 1 885-1889 

Crist, I. B., 1890-1894 

Fortney, G. W 1895-1900 

Manifold, J. H. C 1901-1913 

Ely, G. B., 1915-date 

Watsontown. 

Bilheimer, T. C, D.D., 1866-1869 

Keller, j . B., 1 869-1871 

Mack, P. S 1871-1874 

Oswig, S. P 1873-1878 

Zimmerman. A. K , 1879-1882 

Shannon, S. G., 1882-1885 

Staler, F. W., 1885-1890 

Fishburn, M. H'., 1890-1894 

Mullen, A. O., 1894-1904 

English, J. S 1904-1905 

Shinier, H. D., 1 905-1912 

Kemp, M. S., Litt.D., 1913-date 

Luth. Synod — S 



ii4 



THE SUSOUEHAXNA SYNOD 




Rev. M. L. Shindel, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 115 

West Berwick. 

Harmon, H. E., . 1 902-1912 

Arnold, C. E., 1912-T917 

White Deer Valley. 

Lentz, A. W 1879-1881 

Dietterich, H. A., 1881-1887 

Stroup, G. W., 1887-1891 

Fetterolf, R. F., 1892-1895 

Glaze, R., 1896-1899 

Cooper, A. E., 1900-1905 

Richter, J. A., 1 906-1910 

Tholan, S. F., . . . . . . 1910-date 

Wilkes-Barre, Grace. 

Zinsmeister, C 1894-1898 

Miller, W., D.D., 1898-1904 

Fischer, M. H., Ph.D 1905-1909 

Krout, J. D., 1909-1913. 

Fitzgerald, AY. R., 1914-date 

Wilkes-Barre, First German English 

Zinsmeister, C., 1898- 1900 

Bergeman, P. E., 1900-1902 

Kern, F 1903-1905 

Fultz, H. C, 1905-1910 

Reichart, C. J. A 191 1 -date 

Williamsport, Redeemer. 

Steck, J. M., D.D., 1891-1894 

Snyder, G. F., 1894-1899 

Griffith, J. G., 1899-1903 

Knittie, J. F., 1903-191 1 

Reynolds, H. O., 1912-1915 

Dale, J. E., 1915-date 

Williams port, St. Joint's. 

Warner, A. N., D.D., 1882-1883 

Steck, J. M., D.D., 1883-1887 

Bell, A., 1887-1890 

Irvine, I., 1890-1893 



II.) 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. I. C. Burke, D. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 1IJ 



Benson. C. C., 1893-1897 

Harding. W. H 1897-1899 

Lchr, L. L.. D.D., 1900-1907 

Rentz. W. F., 1908-date 

Williamsport, St. Lukes. 

Trostle, W. A., 1897-1899 

Lahr. W. B 1899-1900 

Hughes, S. P 1 900- 1 90 1 

Wagner I. H., D.D 1902-1909 

Fischer. M. EL, Ph.D 1910-date 

Williamsport, St. Matthew's. 

Goetz, L 1891-1895 

Bateman. S. E.. M.D., Se.D., 1895-1899 

Gift. F. U 1899-1904 

Meyer, F. W., 1904-1908 

Weeter, J. W., D.D 1908-1913 

Good, M. F 1913-date 

Williamsport, St. Paul's. 

Swartz. J., D.D., 1873-1875 

Parson, Geo., D.D 1875-1876 

Reeser, T. F., 1877-1881 

Hughes, S. P 1881-1891 

Anspach. J. M. 3 D.D 1 892-1904 

Bikle. C. G 1 904-191 7 

Supplementary 

Williamsport, St. Mark. 
Home., A. R., D.D.,, ' 1867-1872 

Benton. 
Wagner, H., 1874- 

Plymouth. 
Twele, J. C., 1910-1912 

St. John's, Clinton Twp. } Lycoming Co. 

Games, S. A., 1910-1915 

Dietterich, E. E., 1916-date 



1 l. v 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. Foster U. Gift 



W. L. Rutherford 




Rev. E. M. Gearhart 



Rev. W. A. Kump 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 119 

Blooming Grove. Cogan Station. 

Cogan's Run. 

Hillpot, Joseph., 1 868-1 871 

Seybertsville. 

Shadow, M. X., 1880- 188 1 

McCutcheon, W. R., 1881-1882 

Hassinger, J. E. F., 1884-1889 

Raver, C. W., 

Vilas. 

Kautz, B. F., 1908- 191 2 

Barb, J. H., D.D., 1912-date 

Avis. 

Zimmerman. J. E 1902-1905 

Dise, B. S., 1905-1908 

Briibaker, Jno., D.D., 1908-1909 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. Norman S. Wolf 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



121 



a « 3 

a o> ° 

?H C.3 

-^ A* ^ 


•aonaioAauag 


•cliqs.iaquiaj\[ 
^uBOiunniraoo 


of?" 

g 2 a 





n a 



g'ds 

3 .?_, 

+* E --S 

C3 9 GO 

~ . §f!2 
gdS« 

Ifil 

*>-»:» o 



bo & o 

*g .S 

T3 Spppq 
2* • • 

*c oj — r • 
3 o-gPh 



Jj ID H . 

aa o . 



uiqui 



HMCOWNMlNlOHMfllHOMt-O 
LO CO H LO C L- fM C B «) C H I- M J- H 
OOH^l X "M :■- i~ w — " — ' O ~ ~ o 
ri H C-] (M ri (M C-] H H N M M MHO LO O 



fifiCflO 

P Q ft Q ft 



r r ~ 
::: :::::::::: : : aaaas|jfvj|; 

,2,2,2,2,2 ^ 2 .2 ^ ,2 ,2 ,2 .2 ,2 2 3 3 3 3 3 

iio'So "He "si ex if. ;x ex it bx bx sx u it bx r. — — 2: 22 gTgT =? 

ggggggggggggggg 



. |s; pi; pi. is, [s; — • 



'O-PhPh^Oh 



•odd 



- - - - . . . 

-' ' -■ 33 33 33 2-" - - - 



Oft 1 



o o 






bo bo boccc 

C G G^^^ 1 ^^: 

E E 'E ".' /-s" /-C « « 



9 P 



= -- = : _;;777^--.,.,..i-r 

=-=:=: 2 2 £ ~ "E Z - - -'S'~T ~ '- - ~ - — 

— ^ -_ ~— • — _ _^M>ri 1 " *cbc - -^ 



a, aj 
2d 24 



333333333333333333333323333333233333333333 



: H . H .fififififi 

CO GO p— ' I— i 

" S-l 

G 

c3 E 



C^H 



fi Q ft C Q 

■+-> +J + J ~ ~ ^2 _. r/) rr» r/i _i_i 

000 



«KK««M2^M«K2iKK24242425K^«a5K« 



3-° 



«u o o --2 o 
> &.G 3 p. 

S c K ,2 » G 3 
bx 3 ^3 uSfl- 



> ftp: 

- >_ — 



^1 E3 DO 

H ^5 CD w fb" > fl .S O ~ G Hi a W -2 +J 2 .5 S ' 

"S.SS3 r -G^=^g§"SS"EG.S=2§ 



7. s: 



l-~ l^ t^ J> t- t~ t> t- J 

00 00 00 00 00 XX X 



I 00 00 ( 



^oot-ooooiH«w*io:i>«^ 



122 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. E. A. Chamberlm 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



123 



u 



•aonajOAanag; 



•dtqsjaqniejt 
^uBDtniiinaioo 






^*<~f c£> o o o © ^^ o © 

oocoi-ixaocc?-i^i-ix^J~-£-oc;^;c;5sc: 

"" - L * 2 £ v 2 S 



rlriHrtrinrr'n — rNJJNflN — M M M 7-1 7-1 71 



© go iq ta ya 

— ■/: - r. - — .-. ~ i~ :■' ~ -. - ~ 



c> s *- *i *r S ! 



j>- q: ~ ^ x ^ r i 



immcsk'-Pi rc-»x::cr.i.: i x r: — — r: x ~ 

id £i f. ^ — O ;-?'?; ?; :: :: :::: t :::::: t- ^ ir; c 



= = ! = = = = ~--------~~** = ~ = §:i§§:i:i;i 

;,'dd;,'d 



^bd^^^^^^^sildd 



a ~ -: ^ -: 



dodo sftg^^o'o'c c -J d -J- J - -s :-s :«: - : - : £ - - - - 

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> r r r >>>>>>>>> > 






Ssss^^lllll^^lgllllllf' 

«j < £ |£ | > > s s = M W S s' s s g £ -• - - - - -' : 



QPPP 

QOflfi 



:^§ss |d 



>> 






>>>>>>>> 


> 


^ 


p; 


> 


> 


> > 


> 


> 


>>>>>>>>>> 


> 


> 


> 








5^^^5^^5 


£ 


£ 


^^ 


iii 


« 


5 


^v£^ 


^^-5-5^,-^^^^ 




















Is 


















a 






































; ; r ; ; ~ 












: x 








- • ■ ~ K • 












































& 




5 . • - * ? • 








J 




610 






>> : '■ 

m ■- . ■ 


: r = - 3 : 


t 


cT 


-,- 








(2 tc £ — & — ' 






- 


> 




s - 




fcl 








- 










^> "= C '{J - - - ■ 


> 


5 







s 


- s 

y. - 


^ 


— 


> = G • 

a: C C 


: | "i = ^ Q 


X 




•> 








O-g-g £«,§ 60 PI 


X 


£ 


> 


00 c 
XX 


H fcj 


| 


~ 


bOCN-fJ 


S^^zxZ 


X 


X 


be 




■JBBJt 


t~ x oa ^ — -m og — 
x x x — . — ~ r-. r: 
xxxxxxxx 


X 


X 


1 


X 
X 


X 


ll 


lO 


- 


r- x c; e 


1 1 1 i 1 1 


i 


§ 


1 

















7-1 














CMOJC^T-lKl'MCgSMCM 


(.vj 





~ 


t ->r •>* ^f "* ■* 




■* 


"* 



124 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



I 


: ^^ll 


': : "' : ' ".'''"' : '":" ''■ 


'■..'"' 




Rev. O. A. Mullen 



Rev. H. B. Belmer, D. D. 




Rev. S. G. Shannon 



Rev. A. N. Warner, D. D. 



OE THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH. 125 



ORDINATIONS. 

Tear. Name. Place of Convention 

1868 J. A. Adams Sunbury. 

Joseph Hilpot Sunbury. 

T. G. Griffith Sunbury. 

B. F. Alleman. D. D Sunburv. 

T. C. Billheimer, D. I) Sunburv. 

" I. P. Neff, M. D Sunbury. 

1869 U. Myers, D. D Bloomsburg. 

1870 A. Wiren, (sent to Sweden) Selinsgrove. 

1871 E. S. Reese 1 e rscy Shore. 

J. M. Rees Jersey Shore. 

J. W. Reese Jersey Shore. 

J. H. Zinn. D. D jersey Shore. 

J. M. Reimensnyder, D. D Fersey Shore. 

'' E. E. Berry ; j erS ey Shore. 

1872 F. Aurand Danville. 

FT. C. Haithcox, D. D Danville 

u b. G. Shannon Danville. 

o "A' ?• Zimmerman Danville. 

r °f3 C. S Coates Hughesville. 

m \\ . R. ^ leand Hughesville. 

« n 1 c ^ eltz 5 n Hughesville. 

„ Car Schmidt Hughesville. 

„ fj )} • U eatherwax Hughesville. 

« Y' £ Vr-V? Hughesville. 

A !». Miller ■... i ie sville 

„ ?• % Miiler ;;.*.'.';;;'.;; Hughesvuie. 

r«~ , £ V i ag T ner ' D - D Hwhesville. 

" ?" R mm u , Williamsport. 

„ ^ c" 5? lddI eswarth Williamsport. 

„ ^ S. Brownmiller, D. D Wi"i?msport. 

q tt W btrou P Williamsport. 

lb/5 H. \\ agner Benton. 

u D. R. p. Barry Milton. 

J; Trvme .' Milton. 

E. H. Leisenring, D. D Milti n. 

J. A. FHckinger []][] Milton] 

" W. Seiner Milton. 

D. FF Shultz Milton. 

1S76 J. B. Focht. D. D Lewisburg. 

" Wiliam Kelly Lewisburg. 

W. C. aIcCooI T ewisburg. 

1877 Conrad Huber, D. D Bloomsburg. 

E. B. Killinger, D. D Blocmsburg. 

E. A. Best Blocmsburg. 

"■ J. M. Hedrick Blocmsburg. 

J. M. Iyingle Blocmsburg. 

E. Minter Bloc msburg. 

B. F. Pugh Blocmsburg. ■ 

J. A. Wirt. D. D Blocmsburg. 

" J. A. M. Ziegler, D.D., Ph.D Blocmsburg. 



126 



TIIK SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. H. C. Rose 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 127 

Tear. Name. Place of Convention. 

1878 E. Lenhart Hazleton. 

" S. E. Furst Hazleton. 

F. P. Manhart, D.D Hazleton. 

" Amos Sell Hazleton. 

M. V. Shadow Hazleton. 

H. W. Whitman Hazleton. 

1879 Isaac Krider Shamokin. 

J. V. Bodine Shamokin. 

J. A. West Shamokin. 

" R. B. Starks Shamokin. 

1880 T. J. Frederick Muncy. 

" A. J. Bean Muncy. 

M. L. Malick Muncy. 

" J. N. Lenker, D.D Muncy. 

A. R. Glaze Muncy. 

1881 M. L. Deitzler Northumberland. 

1882 J. E. F. Hassinger Montoursville. 

D. A. Shetler Montoursville. 

J. R. Sample Montoursville. 

1883 D. F. Giles Selinsgrove. 

I. P. Zimmerman Selinsgrove. 

1884 J. C. Schindel Williamsport. 

Samuel Krider Williamsport. 

1885 J. W. Hutchinson Bloomsburg. 

M. L. Schmucker Bloomsburg. 

1886 S. V. Dye Hughesviile. 

G. E. Faber Hughesviile. 

M. E. McLinn Hughesviile. 

1887 F. L Bergstresser, D.D Watsontown. 

H. X. Follmer. D.D ' . ' Watsontown. 

J. L. Lipe Watsontown. 

J. W. Shannon, D.D Watsontown. 

W. A. Trostle Watsontown. 

1888 M. L. Exline ' "Lewisburg. 

1889 W. L. Seabrook Hazleton. 

S. E. Bateman, M.D.. Sc.D Hazleton. 

J. M. Rearick Hazleton. 

A. C. Chatham Hazleton. 

" George Trostle Hazleton. 

" W. F. Steck ; Hazleton. 

O. G. Klingcr Hazleton. 

1890 Hugh M. Barmen, D.D Catawissa. 

Cyrus C. Benson Catawissa. 

W. H. Dale Catawissa. 

" E. E. Dietterich Catawissa. 

1891 R. G. Bannen, D.D Burlingame. 

" W. H. Harding Burlingame. 

C. A. Hoy Burlingame. 

D. E. McLain Burlingame. 

PL C. Salem Burlingame. 

1892 D. B. Eau, D.D Northumberland. 

W. H. Hilbish, D.D Northumberland. 

1893 J I. Stonecypher Montgomery. 

M. Grossman i Montgomery. 

" P. J. Spraker Montgomery. 

" L. H. W. Kline Montgomery. 



128 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. M. S. Kemp, Litt. D. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 129 

Tear. Name. " Place of Convention. 

1894 J. B. Lau Milton. 

T. B. Birch, Ph.D Milton. 

F. Hesse : Milton. 

1895 H. Q. Shadle Sunbury. 

Foster U. Gift Sunbury. 

" E. R. McCauley, D.D Sunbury. 

" E. E. Schantz Sunbury. 

1896 Charles D. Russell Danville. 

John C. Fasolcl, Ph.D • - Danville. 

" Paul E. Bergeman Danville. 

Edgar Sutherland Danville. 

1897 M. M. Allbeck Watsontown. 

M. S. Kemp, Litt.D Watsontown. 

F. J. Matter Watsontown. 

R. W. Mottern Watsontown. 

W. I. Redcay Watsontown. 

C. E. Smith Watsontown. 

1898 C. R. Botsford Selinsgrove. 

J. S. English Selinsgrove. 

1899 G. O. Ritter Shamokin. 

W. B. Lahr Shamokin. 

H. C. Michael Shamokin. 

M. L. Snyder Shamokin. 

1900 A. E. Cooper Bloomsburg. 

C. B. Harman Bloomsburg. 

1901 I. Hess Wagner, D.D Williamsport. 

C. M. Nicholas Williamsport. 

H. E. Harman Williamsport. 

G. A. Livingston Williamsport. 

1902 W . A. Wolgemuth Berwick. 

Isaac Cannaday Berwick. 

H. C. Erdman " Berwick. 

S. A. Games Berwick. 

1903 J. F. Knittle Lewisburg. 

Frank H. Traub Lewisburg. 

W. R. Miller Lewisburg. 

D. J. Snyder Lewisburg. 

W. H. Derr Lewisburg. 

1904 Charles Lambert Hnghesville. 

M. Luther Brownmiller , Hnghesville. 

Luther W. Gross * Hnghesville. 

J. A. Richter Hnghesville. 

Ira Z. Fenstermacher Hnghesville. 

George F. Sheese Hnghesville. 

1905 George W. Xicely Montgomery. 

M. Hadwin Fischer, Ph.D Mr ntgomery. 

L. Raymond Hans Montgomery; 

Paul H. Ketterman Montgomery. 

Philip H. Pearson Montgomery. 

" William L. Price Montgomery. 

1906 Ralph H. Bergstresser Hazleton. 

" Lloyd M. Daubenspeck Hazleton. 

" Ephraim M. Gearhart Hazleton. 

" Edward M. Morgan Hazleton. 

" Frederick H. Schrader Hazleton. 



Luth. Synod — 9 



130 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. W. C. Dunlap 



Rev. W. H. Derr 




Rev. H. D. Shimer 



Rev. J. H. C. Manifold 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH I3I 

Year. Name. Place of Convention. 

1907 ' Charles M. Teufel Milton. 

Calvin P. Swank Milton. 

" Frederick W. Barry Milton. 

B. Franklin Bieber Milton. 

1908 Claude R. Allenbach Muncy. 

George D. Clark Muncy. 

Alvin Yugel Muncy. 

1909 Charles R. Myers Williamsport. 

Thomas B. Uber Williamsport. 

1910 Watsontown. 

191 1 H. M. Bower Northumberland. 

E. A. Chamberlain Northumberland. 

J. D. Curran Northumberland. 

H. S. Dollman Northumberland. 

1912 A. C. Curran S. Williamsport. 

" J. B. Swope S. Williamsport. 

" Joseh Arnold S. Williamsport. 

1913 Walter H. Traub Danville. 

Wm. Benjamin Smith Danville. 

Wm. Joseph Schultz Danville. 

1914 Samuel S. Games Jersey Shore. 

Raymond N. Stump f Jersey Shore. 

James A. Brosius Jersey Shore. 

William J. Dentler Jersey Shore. 

George B. Ely Jersey Shore. 

1915 Karl Eugene Irvin Selinsgrove. 

Harry Russell Shipe Selinsgrove. 

1916 Hughesville. 



132 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




Rev. E. H. Leisenring, D. D. 



SKETCHES OF CHARGES IN THE 
SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

LUTHERAN CHURCH AT MUNCY. 
Rev. W. F. Steck. 

The growth of the town of Muncy, the distance to Emanuels 
Church, the disposition on the part of the young people to attend 
and unite with other denominations in the borough, were among 
the reasons leading to the desire on the part of our fathers to 
organize a new congregation and build a new church in the 
town in which they lived. So, the following action was taken 
at a meeting in the house of M. S. Rissel on the 7th of Novem- 
ber, 1852: 

''Resolved, That it is our deliberate opinion that the interests 
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Muncy Valley, and 
the welfare of the church in general, call for the formation of a 
new organization in the borough of Muncy." 

The following brethren were appointed a committee to prepare 
a constitution, viz., John Long, Michael S. Rissel and Teter D. 
Beeber. 

At a meeting held Nov. 23rd, 1852, the constitution was 
adopted and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Muncy was 
organized. A building committee was elected and a subscrip- 
tion book provided. 

A site was secured and the First Lutheran Church of Muncy 
erected according to the plans of the committee. On Wednesday, 
the 19th day of October, 1853, the edifice was dedicated, free 
of debt. The sermon was preached by the Rev. J. Winecoff, of 
Lewisburg, Penna. His text was from 1st Kings, 8-27. The 
following Lutheran ministers were present and assisted in the 
exercises of the great day: Revs. J. Winecorf, P. Sheeder, P. 
Born, P. Willard, S. Tingling, D. H. Bittle, C. J. Ehrhart, and 
Rev. Geo. Parson, Pastor. 

The first communion service was held in the new church on 

(133) 



134 TH £ SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Easter Sunday, April 15th, 1854. Preparatory services were 
held on the previous Sunday afternoon, at which twenty new 
members w r ere added to the church. Seventy-two persons com- 
muned. 

The name of Elizabeth Trumbower appears on the next list 
of communicants and was doubtless one of the original mem- 
bers of the congregation. Only one person on this list is still 
living — Rev. J. R. Dimm, D. D. 

The first Infant Baptisms recorded are on Feb. 5th, 1854. 
Charles Curtis, son of John and Julia Beeber 2nd Chas. Lloyd, 
son of Charlote Harris. 

From date of its organization, Nov. 7th, 1852 to June 1st, 
1865, Rev. Geo. Parsons was the beloved and efficient Pastor — 
covering a period of thirteen years, five months, six days. He 
was the Father of the Lutheran Church at Muncy, as he was the 
Father of the Lutheran Church at Hughesville and of not a few 
other Lutheran Churches in this vicinity, which were born during 
his pastorate of twenty-two years in the Muncy Valley. Hundreds 
and hundreds were added to the various Lutheran churches of the 
West Branch Valley during his ministry of nearly a quarter of a 
century, and it may fairly be said that no other Lutheran minister 
in his day and generation ever did more to extend the faith of 
Luther than Dr. George Parson did in the Valiey of the West 
Branch. One hundred and forty-eight persons were added to the 
Lutheran Church of Muncy during his pastorate. 

Rev. E. A. Sharretts was the successor of Dr. Parson in 
Muncy, serving the congregation from 1866 to 1869. Ninety- 
four persons were added to the church during the three years 
of his ministry. At this writing Dr. Sharretts is still living and 
is the oldest minister within the entire bounds of the Susquehanna 
Synod. 

Rev. A. H. Aughe assumed pastoral charge of the congregation 
on Sept. 15th, 1869, remaining three years. 

During the pastorate of Rev. Aughe thirty-seven members 
were added to the Lord, and an addition made to the church 
building at a cost of $2,500.00. The building committee at this 
time consisted of M. S. Rissel, T. D. Beeber and Philip Heilman. 

Up to the resignation of Rev. Aughe the Muncy Church and 
the one at Hughesville were united as one charge. At this June- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



135 



ture the church at Hughesville somewhat unceremoniously, at 
least, in the eyes of their Muncy brethren, decided to become 
"free and independent."' Judging from the amounts paid to the 
pastor's salary, S545.00, by Hughesville and S385.00 by Muncy, 
the Hughesville congregation was the stronger of the two 
churches, at least financially; so without the formality of any 
notice to her weaker Muncy sister, called a Pastor "for her own 
individual use and benefit." This action left the Muncy congre- 
gation in somewhat of a dilemma, "to be, or not to be" was the 




Muncy, Pa. 



question for her to answer. Some of the membership of the 
Miincy church were greatly disheartened and feit that they could 
never support a Pastor alone, and therefore proposed disbanding, 
and uniting with other Lutheran churches. Others said "never 
say die" and starting out with a subscription paper, succeeded 
in securing pledges for $650.00 for the new Pastor's salary. The 
call was extended to the Rev. H. C. Haithcox, who entered his 
labors in Muncy April 1st, 1872. Rev. Haithcox served the. 
congregation acceptably for two years and nine months, 52 
persons uniting with the church under his leadership. 

Rev. J. A. Hackenburg became the successor of Rev. Haithcox 
on May 1st, 1875. During his incumbency a much needed par- 



I36 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

sonage was erected at a cost of $1,900.00 and seventy-seven mem- 
bers were added. 

Rev. Hackenburg- resigned Oct. 1st, 1877. Thus, for a period 
of about five years, the Muncy Lutheran Church constituted a 
separate pastorate, but owing to serious losses by death and re- 
moval, as well as the stringency of the times, it was decided in 
1878 to form a union with St. John's Lutheran Church, of Black 
Hole Valley, under the name of the Muncy Charge. On Oct. 
1st, 1878, Rev. E. H. Leisenring accepted a call to become Pastor 
of the newly constituted Muncy Charge and resigned Feb. 5th, 
1884. -During the six years of Rev. Leisenring's stay in Muncy 
180 souls entered upon the way of life. Nov. 5th. i88j, the 
congregation celebrated its thirtieth anniversary. Rev. E. H. 
Leisenring was assisted in the exercises by two former pastors, 
Rev. Geo. Parsons, the venerated founder of the congregation 
and his successor, the Rev. E. A. Sharretts. At the Saturday 
evening service Rev. Sharretts preached from the text, "The Lord 
loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob." 
On Sunday morning, Rev. Parson preached, taking as his text, 
"for as the rain cometh down, and the snow from Heaven, and 
returneth not thither but watereth the earth and maketh it to 
bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and 
bread to the eater; so shall my word be that goeth forth out of 
my mouth.'' In the evening, the historical sermon was delivered 
by Rev. Leisenring from the text, "Thirty years of age." 

Rev. M. S Cressman took charge of the Muncy pastorate Feb. 
1st, 1885 an d resigned Feb. 5th, 1888. During Rev. Cressman's 
pastorate extensive improvements and repairs were made to 
the church and 26 added to the membership. 

Rev. J. A. Koser accepted a call to Muncy May 1st, 1888, 
retiring from the field May 1st 1895. Rev. Koser received into 
the church at Muncy 233 persons and sixty at St. Johns, making 
a total of 318. Thirty members were added to the church at 
Montgomery which Rev. Koser served for a short time as a 
supply pastor. Various repairs and improvements were made 
upon the property of the church. During the pastorate $3,320.00 
were contributed for benevolence, $10,800.00 for usual and un- 
usual local expenses. During this time, the property of the 
church suffered from two disastrous floods, in June, 1889 the 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 137 

water rilled the church to the depth of over six feet, with four 
feet five inches in the parsonage. In May, 1894 the water in the 
church measured four feet five inches, with two feet seven inches 
in the parsonage. These two floods settled the question whether 
to repair or build a new church, also the site on higher ground 
of the proposed new church. 

Rev. W. F. Steck became pastor Dec. rst, 1895. During these 
years, which have intervened, a much larger number has been 
received into the fellowship of the Church of Muncy, than there 
are now members. 

The present baptized membership of the church is 533. Con- 
firmed membership 466. Communicant membership 356. Mere 
numbers, however, signify nothing. Only those numbers count 
who are "confirmed unto the end." 

The greatest material achievement of the Church at Muncy 
during the present pastorate was the building and dedication, 
free of debt, of our new, beautiful Temple of God. It is centrally 
located on the corner of Main and Penn streets, constructed chiefly 
out of the stone taken from the old Muncy aqueduct. It is of 
English Gothic design, 116 feet long, fifty to seventy feet wide, 
and stands upon a plot of ground seventy-rive feet wide and 184 
feet long. There are two towers, one at the main entrance to the 
auditorium, and one at the entrance to the Sunday School depart- 
ment. 

The trimmings are of Hummelstown brown-stone. The church 
is heated by steam and lighted by electricity and has beautiful 
leaded art glass windows throughout. Every stone in the struc- 
ture represents the faith, love, labor and sacrifice of the souls 
who worship in this place, most of whom are the lineal descend- 
ants of those who one hundred and twenty-five years ago built 
the First Emanuel Church and of those who three-score years 
and three years past built the first church bearing the name of 
Luther in Muncy. 

The corner-stone of the new church was laid on Sunday, April 
29th, 1906, according to the ritual of the Evangelical Lutheran 
Church. Rev. J. IT. McGann, D. P., President of Susquehanna 
Synod, Rev, J.' II. Barb, D. D., Rev. J. M. Steck, D. D., and 
Rev. R. G. Bannen, D. D., and Rev. W. F. Steck, the Pastor, 
were the ministers present. 



138 



THE SUSOUEHAXXA SYNOD 



The building committee were : Rev. W. F. Steck, president. 
J. Russell Smith, secretary, Hammond Michael, treasurer, and 
J. H. Bailey, J. C. Schuch, and F. C. Heilman in connection with 
the Trustees of the Congregation. 

The dedication took place on Sunday, March ist, 1908. Rev. 
Geo. M. Diffenderfer, D. D., of Carlisle. Penna., made an ad- 
dress in the morning. Rev. E. H. Leisenring, D. D., preached in 
the evening from Zach. 4-6. 

Following- the exercises of the day of dedication was a week of 



\ 



X 




«l 




EVANGEL^ 

lUTffiRA 
CffiJRCft 







C(P 



1855 M6E0RAE PARSON, 

Pastor 



rejoicing. Rev. C. G. Bikle talked of "Our Church" on Mon- 
day evening; Rev. J. M. Reimensnyder, D. D. told of "Our 
Bible School" on Tuesday evening; Rev. R. G. Bannen, D. D. 
exalted ''Our Young People" on Wednesday evening; Rev. J. 
H. Barb, D. D. praised "Out Women" on Thursday evening', 
and Rev. W. C. Dunlap, D. D. stirred up "Our Men" on 
Friday night. 

Memorial windows were placed in the new church in honor of 
all the former pastors of the congregation inscribed with their 
years of service, thus furnishing a connected history of the various 
pastors of the church from the days of its sainted founder, Rev. 
Geo. Parsons down to the present. 

On Dec. 20th, 1914, quoting from President Manhart's report 
to the Susquehanna Synod, at Selinsgrove, 191 5, "a fine pipe or- 
gan was dedicated at Muncy, Pa., at a cost of $2,400.00, of which 



OF THF EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 139 

sum Mr. Andrew Carnegie paid $875.00. In addition, repairs 
were made to the parsonage costing- $400.00. All was paid for 
before the service of dedication. The President of the Synod 
preached in the morning and at the evening service Hon. A. W. 
Johnson, of Lewisburg, Penna., made a suitable address on 
music and worship. The Pastor assisted by the President of the 
Synod dedicated the organ." 



MUNCY CREEK PASTORATE. 

Rev. J. I. Stoxecipher. 

As at present constituted, this pastorate consists of the fol- 
lowing four churches: Imanuel, situated midway between 
Muncy and Hnghesville ; Messiah, at Clarkstown; Mt. Zion, 
in P'enn township, and Moreland, in Moreland township. 

What has become of the original records, I do not know. 
The only one in possession of the Pastor dates back to 1878. 
This record furnishes but little history. Fortunately, however, 
a little volume entitled "Lutherans in Lycoming County" was 
written by the late Rev. J. M. Sleek. To this little volume and 
its author I am indebted for whatever facts prior to this time 1 
may record. 

Immanuel Church. 

This was, as far as we can learn, the first church located 
within the bounds of Lycoming county. For a long time it was 
the only church in the lower end of the county. The land was 
donated by Henry Shumaker, and consisted of a plot of thirteen 
acres of ground. 

The deed was executed April 5, 1791. The church edifice was 
commenced at once. It was built of logs and afterwards weather- 
boarded. It was a large structure for those days, seating about 
six hundred persons. There were galleries on three sides of the 
building, and a "stem' glass pulpit" on the other side, with a 
sounding board above it. The building was in every way worthy 
of the times of our fathers and their means. It was a Lutheran 
church, though generously opened for services to other denomi- 
nations. To some, occasionally ; others, regularly. Among the 



140 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

latter were the Episcopalians and the German Reformed, who 
■•effected organizations in it. 

At the time of its erection a school house was built by the 
congregation, just below the declivity, for a parochial school, 
which always in those days went with the erection of a Lutheran 
•church edifice. 

The second church building was erected in 1832. Jonas Yeakel 
was the builder. The corner-stone was laid April 5th of that year. 
It was beautifully engraved by Simon Dimm, father of Rev. J. 




Emanuel Church, near Hughesville 

R. Dimm, D. D., LL. D., who, still lives at Selinsgrove, Pa., as 
Professor Emeritus of Susquehanna University, of which in- 
stitution he was second president. The corner-stone is now 
found by that of the present edifice. 

This church w T as union, Lutheran and Reformed. Like the 
first, it was built with galleries on three sides, arid a high pulpit. 
At the dedication services Rev. Charles P. Miller was assisted 
by Rev. J. G. Anspach, Lutheran, of Buffalo Valley, and Rev. 
Freese of the Reformed church of the same place. Rev. Freese 
preached the dedicatory sermon from Psalm 87 :2, 3. In the 



OF THF EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 14! 

afternoon a sermon was preached in English by Rev. Patterson 
of the Presbyterian church. 

The corner-stone of the present and third edifice was laid 
August 28, 1869. Rev. U. Myers was pastor. The building com- 
mittee consisted of John McConnell, Francis Beeber, Samuel 
Buck and Charles Gortner, all descendants of those interested in 
the church's earliest history. The church was dedicated May 
1, 1870. It cost $3,480.25. Rev. U. Myers was assisted by Revs. 
U. Graves and A. H. Aughev, Lutheran, and Rev. A. L. Evans, 
Reformed. 

The Pastors. 

While the first church was built in 1 79 1 , there was a Lutheran 
minister on the ground at least ten years earlier. From a 
baptismal certificate in the hands of Jacob Turner we learn that 
Pastor Lehman baptized Susan Catharine Gortner, afterwards 
Baker, grandmother of Rev. J. M. Steck, from whose narrative 
we gather these facts), in 1781. As to whether he conducted 
services for the people at that time we do not know. All that 
we have to guide us is a record of a number of baptisms, some 
of which took place previous to the erection of the first church 
edifice. This would indicate that the people had at least an 
occasional service, doubtless conducted in private houses. Pie. 
might have been pastor at the time the first church edifice was 
erected and dedicated. From such certificates it would indicate 
that he was the pastor up to 1795. After this there is no record 
of baptisms until 1801. There seems to have been a vacancy 
during this interim. The first pastor's name we find on the 
records is that of Victor George Charles Stock. He came from 
Sunbury and began his labors in 1801. He formed, instructed 
and confirmed a catechetical class of thirty- four members, and 
confirmed them on Good Friday, 1801, and was followed by 
communion on Easter Sunday. The list shows that fifty-nine 
communed, and it is the first communion list found on the records. 
There is nothing to indicate how long this pastor served. The 
certificate of baptism of Sarah Baker Steck, (mother of Rev. 
J. M. Steck), shows that he was still pastor in 1809. That his 
ministry here ended here previous to 1813 we know from the 
fact that Father Jacob Dimm ( still living at the time of the 
centennial) was baptized in that year by Pastor Frederick Englc 



14- 



THE SL'SOl'EHANNA SYNOD 



We do not know when Pastor Engle resigned, nor when his 
successor. Rev. Jacob Repass, began his labors. From baptisms 
administered it is shown that he was pastor as early as 1816 and 
as late as 1823. Father Miller thinks that he preached until near 
the time that Rev. William Carman took charge of the congrega- 
tion. The territory enbraced in the field served by Rev. Repass 
extended over parts of Northumberland, Union, Columbia and 
Lycoming counties. 

His successor, Rev. William Garman, began his labors in 1829. 




Mt. Zion Church, Muncy Creek Charge 



He instructed a class of twenty-six catechumens and confirmed 
them on March 15, 1830. There was communion the following 
day. The list showed one hundred and eighteen ; the largest 
thus far on record. Pastor Garman resigned some time during 
the year 1832. He resigned because he felt that the people should 
have English as well as German preaching". 

Rev. Charles Philip Miller became his successor, and during 
his pastorate the second church edifice was completed and dedi- 
cated. There is no record showing the length of time he served. 
His last recorded baptism is Feb. 2, 1834. He must have been 



of the Evangelical lutherax church 143 

pastor at least to the close of that year, for he baptized Rev. J. M. 
Steck, who was born Oct. 19, 1834. 

. Rev. Charles F. Staver was the next pastor. He commenced 
his labors Nov. 20, 1836. He confirmed a class of thirty-eight 
on Nov. 18, 1837. Among these we find the names of Michael 
and Daniel Steck. The former was Superintendent of Indian 
Affairs for several years in Xew Mexico. The latter became 
one of the most eloquent and successful ministers of our church. 
He was called from his earthly labors while serving as pastor 
at Gettysburg. 

Rev. John T. William's succeeded Rev. Staver as pastor, be- 
ginning his labors in the Fall of 1839, and continuing until 1843. 
He was instrumental in gathering large numbers into the church. 
Some of them later became prominent in the Lutheran ministry. 
Among these persons we find the name of Rev. Joshua Evans. 
He was afterwards represented in the Lutheran ministry by his 
son, Rev. W. P. Evans, of Baltimore. Rev. Jacob Steck after- 
wards engaged in educational work in South Carolina was re- 
ceived at the same time, as was also the Rev. R. Hill, D. D., later 
Superintendent of Mt. Airy Theological Seminary of the Lu- 
theran Church at Philadelphia. Numbered among a class of 
forty-nine received into this church by Rev. Williams one June 
3. 1843, was one afterwards prominent in the Lutheran ministry, 
the Rev. J. Gortner Butler. D. D. Two hundred and twenty- 
seven persons communed at the service on the da}- following the 
reception of these persons into the church. 

Rev. George Parsons, D. D., took charge of the congrega- 
tion Dec. 8. 1844. and was pastor until June, 1865. Hundreds 
were added to the Muncy congregations during his ministry. 
Soon after his arrival two new churches were erected in White 
Deer Valley ; two in the Lairdsville charge ; one in Hughesville, 
and another in Muncy. Thus was prepared the way for the for- 
mation of new charges, so that to-day, from the territory from 
which Immanuel church originally drew her membership and 
over which she exercised a fostering care as the central congre- 
gation, there are nearly a 'score of churches. 

But the new organizations effected on the territory of the 
mother church told largely against the length of her communion 
list. The o'reat throngs who had once frequented her courts 



[44 



1USQUEHANNA SYNOD 



were seen entering her gates no more. They worshiped in other 
Lutheran churches established on her territory. It must have 
been with sad hearts that those who remained looked upon the 
decreasing numbers. True it was in the interest of progress 
and ought not to have been otherwise. But nevertheless it was 
no light trial. Their hearts must have been made sadder still, 
when by action of Synod, During the pastorate of Rev. E. A. 
Sharretts of the Muncy charge, her doors were closed against 
regular service, and worship ceased at the altars erected on the 
sacred spot where for generations their fathers had worshiped. 




Moreland Church 



Those only now were near her altars, now for the first time de- 
serted, who slept in her quiet cemetery. But there were those 
in the vicinity whose love for the dear old church was not 
crushed out by Synodical edict. The Dimms, the Harmons, the 
McConnells, the Beebers, the Bucks, and others came to the 
rescue, and at the end of two years the doors swung open to the 
Rev. U. Myers, who commenced to preach the Word and build 
up the waste places of Zion. He commenced with twelve mem- 
bers, and in two years the number was increased to fifty-two 
communicants worshiping in a new church edifice. Thus old 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 145 

Immanuel starts out upon a new lease of life and usefulness. 
Again we feel like saying from our hearts, thank God, thank 
God, the dear old church with all its hallowed memories is per- 
petuated. 

After the resignation of Rev. Myers, this church was sup- 
plied for a short time by Rev. J. M. Reimensnyder, then a theo- 
logical student. 

Since then the following pastors have been in charge : 

Rev. Geo. Eicholtz commenced his labors in 1872 and served 
the congregation faithfully and acceptably for several years. 

Rev. W. R. McCutcheon, 1878 to close of 1881. 

Rev. J. R. Sample. April 1, 1882. to April 1, iSSy. 

Rev. A. B. Erhard. May 5, 1887, served as pastor eleven 
months. 

Rev. A. C. Felker succeeded him and died while pastor here. 
His body lies buried in the cemetery adjoining the church. 

Rev. M. H. Havice, 1889 to 1891. 

Rev. D. B. Lau took charge Feb. 1. 1892. 

Rev. J. M. Steck served as temporary supply from Nov. 1, 
1893, to February 1, 1894. 

Rev. W. J. Wagner served as regular pastor May 1, 1894, to 
Feb. 1, 1897. 

Rev. I. B. Crist, pastor rive years. 

Rev. J. C. Fassold, Nov. 1, 1903, to May 31, 1906. 

Rev. L. R. Hans. March i, 1907, to April 1, 1908. 

Rev. C. H. Day. 

Rev. A. H. Williamson, supply June 10. 191 1, to autumn of 
1914. 

Rev. J. I. Stonecypher, regular pastor May 9, 191 5, to pres- 
ent time. 

The membership of Emmanuel church has for years been on 
the decline. The multiplication of rural churches ; unsettled con- 
ditions caused by the altogether too frequent change of pastors ; 
the rapid growth and development of our churches in the nearby 
towns of Muncy and Hughesville, and the so much better facili- 
ties for church work afforded there, — all these combined have 
for years been making exceedingly difficult the proposition of 
maintaining the work in the mother organization. 

What the future may hold in store for her we cannot see. 

Luth. Synod — 10 



146 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



Her past has been a glorious one. She has been a real pioneer. 
She is one of the forces which early blazed the way for civiliza- 
tion in the country. Making her way in the wilds of the forest, 
she felled the trees and built of logs a temple unto God. The 
Red Man was yet in the land. He had his trail over the hills 
and along the valley of the Susquehanna. These pioneer church- 
men at old Emmanuel knew what it was to worship under diffi- 
culties. When they went to church they often carried their 
rifles with them. That was for this country the time when the 
little leaven was put into the handful of meal. It has wrought 
marvelously during the century and a quarter that has passed. 
Whatever the Lutheran Church in Lycoming County is to-day 
is due in large measure to the self-sacrificing labors of these 
devoted pioneers who laid the foundation for the work in this 
part of the state at old Emmanuel. 

Messiah Church. 

The land for the site of Messiah Lutheran church of Clarks- 
town was donated bv Mr. Henrv Gold. The building was erected 









4 


\ !/• ff 








x 


"A \« 


















V i ; <" 




1 ; 


■■^J^ 


Vtjf K-Ar 


F 'f it* 


' | 




lllr x 




■ m-^~f 




Mi 




,1 "X, 






Vtfr 


m 








WkW 








,'. 


. ^ 








J 






i«un 








m 




" i 





Messiah Church. Clarkstown 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 147 

in 1868 during the pastorate of the Re\. Geo. Eicholtz. The 
original membership consisted in large part of persons living in 
Clarkstown and vicinity, — a goodly number to the south upon the 
Muncy hills, and who withdrew from the old mother church 
(Emanuel) in order to form this new congregation. Among 
those constituting the charter membership can be recalled the 
names of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Gold ; Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Lit- 
chard; Air. and Mrs. Jared DeWald; Mr. and Airs. H. T. Mc- 
Carthy ; Air. and Airs. M. J. Albeck ; Air. and Airs. Reuben Zarr ; 
Air. and Airs. Jacob Albeck ; Air. and Airs. Gottleib Albeck ; Air. 
John Albeck; Mr. and Airs. Isaac Beaver; Air. and Airs. Jacob 
Turner; Air. and Airs. Isaac Kisner. Of this number Mr. and 
Airs. Al. J. Albeck alone survive. They are now members of the 
Aloreland congregation. 

The present church roll still bears a goodly number of the old 
family names, — descendants of the original founders. This 
church has just been remodeled and newly furnished at a cost of 
Fourteen Hundred Dollars. The rededication services were held 
December 3, 19 16. 

Alt. Zion church was erected during the pastorate of the Rev. 
George Parsons in the early sixties. It is the oldest, and was for 
many years the only church of any denomination in Penn Town- 
ship. 

Aloreland church has been part of the Muncy Creek pastorate 
only since the year 1903. It formerly belonged to the Lairdsvilic 
charge. 



GRACE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH. 

Spruce Street, Between Front Street and Second Streets, 
Sunbury, Pa. 

Historical Sketch. 

The first Lutheran Church organized in Sunbury, Pa., was 
located at the corner of what is now Walnut street and River 
avenue, just about one square from the location of this church. 
This was in 1768. 



iaS 



THFJ SUSOUKHANNA SYNOD 



The preparatory work for the organization of Grace Church 
was done in a Union Sunday School conducted in the public 
school building on the corner of Second and Spruce streets. 
Later a Lutheran Sunday School was organized by the Rev. J. 
H. Weber, D. D., pastor of Zion Lutheran Church, Sunbury, 
m 1890. In 1895 the l°t u P on which Grace Church now stands 
was purchased, and on April 25th the cornerstone was laid for 
the building. 




Grace Church, Sunbury 



The Building Committee consisted of Rev. J. H. Weber, presi- 
dent ; W. H. Kesty, secretary ; J. M. Zimmerman, treasurer ; 
R. F. Krohn and Bailey Kennedy. 

Grace Lutheran Church was organized July 24, 1898, by Rev. 
J. H. Weber, D. D., and C. H. Brosius. There were fifty-three 
charter members. Rev. C. H. Brosius, who made the preliminary 
canvass, was elected pastor and continued as the spiritual guide 
of the young congregation until June, 1907, when he resigned 
to accept an appointment as missionary to Africa. 

Rev. James A. Hartman was elected pastor in May, 1907, 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH I4g 

and began his pastorate in September, 1907. The congregation 
then had a membership of about 85 communcarfts, with a sub- 
stantial chapel, which was paid for, an ample lot upon which 
to build an auditorium, and a comfortable parsonage upon which 
rested a debt of about $600. 

During the last nine years there has been steady growth in all 
the activities of the church. The communicant membership has 
grown to about 240, while the confirmed list is nearly 300. The 
Sunday School has an enrolled membership of about 350, with 
an average attendance of 200. 

Grace Chapel was enlarged and generally improved during 
the summer of 1909, at a cost of $1,500. An addition of 14 feet 
was added on the west side, and a convenient study for the pas- 
tor was built on the east side. The entire building was painted, 
the walls frescoed, and a new carpet laid on the floor. 

The year 191 5 and 1916 marked a new era in the history of 
Grace Church. 

Two events are of special note and are of particular interest. 
The first is the fact that' Grace Church reached the point of self- 
support during the year 1915. 

From her organization until this time, September i, 1915, tne 
congregation had been assisted in the support of her pastor by 
the Board of Home Missions. 

Tt was at a congregation meeting held on the 5th of September, 
191 5, that it was unanimously decided to relieve the Board of 
Home Missions of any further aid, and to assume the entire 
salary of the pastor. This step was made possible because of the 
growth and generosity of the congregation. 

The second important step taken was the congregation's pur- 
pose to build an auditorium or main church building. The con- 
gregation had for several years felt the need of better accom- 
modations and larger facilities to do her work. 

The congregation took definite action in May, 191 5. The 
building committee consisted of the following: Reuben F. Krohn, 
President; Rev. Jas. A. Hartman, Secretary; M. P. Kreider, 
Treasurer; T. M. AYetzel, W. L. Messner, Elmer E. Mantz, John 
H. Fox. 

W. PI. Lee. of Shamokin, was the architect, and Malick & 
Erdman, the contractors. The church was dedicated April 9th, 
1916. 



150 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Dr. John A. Singmaster, of Gettysburg*, and President of the 
General Synod, and Dr. A. Stewart Hartman, Associate General 
Secretary of the Boards of Home Mission and Church Extension, 
were the speakers. The services were in charge of the pastor, 
Rev. J. A. Hartman. 

The congregation has a church property valued at $22,000 and 
a substantial parsonage adjoining valued at about $2,500. 



A BRIEF HISTORY OF TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH, 

900 Susquehanna Ave., Sunbury, Pa. 

By Rsv. W. H. Hiubish, D. D., Pastor. 

In the year 1903 the need of Lutheran Church in the 
fifth ward, Sunbury, Pa. was recognized by the Susquehanna 
Synod. The matter was brought before the body then assembled 
in Lewisburg, Pa., by Mrs. Chas. Steele of Northumberland, in 
the shape of a resolution recommending the establishment of a 
congregation in the fifth ward of Sunbury, Pa. The resolution 
was adopted and a committee was appointed to take charge of the 
matter. Mr. George E. Scheese, a senior in the Theological 
Seminar)- of Selinsgrove, was appointed missionary pastor. In 
conjunction with the committee of Synod the missionary pastor 
canvassed the territory and on August 23, 1903, an organization 
was effected with a charter membership of 53. Rev. J. M. 
Anspach, D. D., Rev. J. H. Weber, D. D., Rev. C. H. Brosius, 
Rev. C. R. Botsford and the missionary pastor officiated at the 
organization. The services were held for some time in the fifth 
ward school house and from the start the outlook was good. 
In May. 1904, Air. Scheese resigned the charge and Mr. E. 3VL 
Gearhart. a junior at Susquehanna Theological Seminary, took 
charge June 1. The year of worship in the school house is well 
remembered by the most of the congregation. It was a year full 
of labor, when they w T ere planning for and looking forward to 
a House of Worship. At the end of the year these anticipations 
took shape when the ground was broken on the corner of Sus- 
quehanna Avenue and Amy Street for the new church. On 
July 24. 1904 the corner-stone was laid with fitting ceremony. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



151 



This beautiful stone was a gift to the church from Mr. Guy 
Heckert, of Miller sburg, Pa. At this service the president of 
Synod officiated, assisted by Rev. J. R. Dimm, D. D., Rev. C. R. 
Botsford, Rev. C. H. Brosius and Rev. E. M. Gearhart. The 




Trinity Church, Sunbury. 

following year was a busy one, working- for the completion of the 
church. At last the fond hopes were realized when on May 28, 
1905, the building completed was dedicated to the service of 
Almighty God. The president of Synod officiated at these ser- 
vices, assisted by Rev. J. M. Steck, D. D., Rev. C. R. Botsford, 
Rev. C. W. Raver, Rev. C. H. Brosius, Rev. J. H. Weber, D. D., 
and Rev. E. M. Gearhart. At this service subscriptions large 
enough to meet the entire indebtedness were raised. 

The historical event in the history of Trinity was the paying 



: 5-2 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

off and burning of the first mortgage held against the church. 
This mortgage was held by Susquehanna University. Sept. nth, 
1907, the trustees of Trinity met the registrar of the University 
at the court house and the mortgage was satisfied and canceled. 
Aroused by this event the members at once set to work with the 
motto, "A church free of debt." They persevered until that 
very thing- was accomplished. This effort was ended when on 
March 14th, 1909, amid great rejoicing and thankfulness the last 
paper held against the congregation was burned and the entire 
indebtedness wiped out. 

At this same service a splendid new organ was dedicated to the 
service of God. The significant part of the dedication being 
the fact that the organ was placed in the church the last week in 
February and was dedicated free of all encumbrances, with ail the 
necessary electrical appliances, in less than four weeks. This 
was made possible largely by the splendid gifts of Mr. Andrew 
Carnegie and Mr. C. C. Seebold. of Sunbury, Pa. 

Rev. E. M. Gerhart resigned the pastorate October 1st, 191 1, 
and was succeeded by Rev. L. G. Stouffer, May 19th, 1912. 

During the pastoral care of Rev. Stouffer the beautiful and 
modern parsonage was built on the adjoining lot on Susquehanna 
Avenue at a cost of $3,100, exclusive of the lot. Rev. Stouffer 
resigned as pastor July 1st, 19 14 and was succeeded by Rev. VV. 
H. Hilbish, D. D., November 1st, 1914. 

During the pastorate of Rev. Hilbish the church basement was 
fitted up for social purposes at an expenditure of S200.00 and 
$1,050.00 paid on the parsonage debt. A beautiful Mathusheck 
piano was also placed in the Sunday School. 

Thus have passed into history the 14 years of service. They 
have been successful years, but who can estimate the possibilities 
of the future? With a membership over four fold what it was 
when the church was organized, a splendidly equipped church, 
a beautiful and modern parsonage, a growing section of the 
city as our field and an enthusiastic membership to push the 
work of the Lord what can we not do? 



CF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 153 

ZION, SUNBURY. 

It is impossible to give definite information about the begin- 
nings of Zion Lutheran church. In 1772, when Sunbury was 
laid out, a tract of land on Third Street, between Penn and 
Church Streets, was donated to the Lutheran church by the 
proprietor. This is proof that a congregation was in existence 
before the Revolutionary war. Xor is there any definite infor- 
mation available concerning the early pastors, tho it is probable 
that the church had been served by Revs. John Llerbst, Geist- 
weiter, Lnger, and Christian Espich previous to the erection of 
its first building in 1791. The church had early begun to hold 
its meetings in the log schoolhouse on the corner of Walnut 
Street and River Alley. 

In 1 791, during the pastorate of Rev. Hspich, the construction 
of a church at Third and Church Streets was begun. In the 
following spring, before the roof was completed, the congre- 
gation found itself unable to complete the building on account 
of lack of funds. Mr. Christian Gettig was then sent to Phila- 
delphia, with a commission which read in part as follows: 

"We, the subscribers, elders of the Lutheran congregation at 
Sunbury, have undertaken to build a house of worship for said 
congregation, having one erected and partly under roof, but 
finding ourselves rather weak and unable to finish it, as many 
of us have suffered greatly by the hostile Indians in the late 
war. do therefore take this liberty of asking a charily of our 
fellow brethren and citizens at Philadelphia and elsewhere, do 
therefore request the favor and empower our trusty friend and 
brother, Christian Gettig. Esq., one of the elders and managers 
of our congregation, to collect a charity tor us." 

Appeals for help were sent to other outside places, but the 
cost was not entirely provided for when the building was dedi- 
cated in 1793. The building was about forty by thirty feet in 
size, and was built of rough logs at a cost, including the bell, of 
$2,406.06. The architect was Nicholas Rauscher, and the audi- 
tors reported that "the architecture of the building is a master- 
piece for the small sum of money that was expended." Other 
men active in the building operations were Christian Gettig, 
Paul Baldv. Peter Smith, George Zimmerman, Stofel Eilert. 



154 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



Frederick Lazarus, Sebastian Pleitz, John Painter, Philip Phef- 
fer, and B. Hubley. 

Rev. Christian Espich probably served the charge until 1812, 
when Rev. J. P. Shindel began a pastorate that lasted until 1853. 
The charge at that time included several congregations, some as 




Zion Church, S'unbury 

far away as Catawissa, Shamokin and Gratztown. The call to 
the Sunbury church stated that the pastor should preach in Sun- 
bury once in four weeks, and receive a salary from that congre- 
gation of $75 a year. 

In 1819 Rev. Shindel was invited to become pastor of a charge 
that included eight churches west of the Susquehanna, of which 
Selinsgrove was the nearest, in addition to his already large 



01' THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 1 55 

field. He agreed to supply this charge temporarily, with the help 
of an assistant, Mr. Jacob W. Smith, who was then studying 
Theology under him. In 1821, Mr. Smith became pastor of six 
of the congregations, but Selinsgrove and Row's church con- 
tinued in the Sunbury pastorate until 1843. 

Rev. Shindel's pastorate was a period of rapid advancement 
for the Sunbury church. In 181 5. a pipe organ was installed. 
In 1826, the rough log church was plastered inside and out and 
many other improvements were made. A new constitution was 
adopted in 1837. A union Sunday School had for some time 
been conducted in Sunbury, but a separate Lutheran Sunday 
School was first formed in 1841. The log school house in which 
the congregation had long ago worshiped was sold and a new 
brick school house built just north of the church, at a cost of 
$443, and this provided a suitable place for the Sunday School. 
An agreement made by the pastor and congregation in 1842 
shows clearly the improvement in conditions. The pastor was 
to receive from the Sunbury congregation $250 a year, and to 
preach there every two weeks, alternately in German and Eng- 
lish. This is the first definite mention of English services. 

In 1840-2 there was much agitation in the Lutheran church 
over the "new measures" and the language question. Under 
Rev. Shindel's leadership the congregation favored the "new 
measures" and the use of the English language, and joined the 
newly organized East Pennsylvania Synod in 1842. During the 
last few years of the Shindel pastorate, Revs. H. Ziegler, of 
Selinsgrove, and M. J. Alleman, of Northumberland, preached 
frequently in Sunbury in the English language, and in 185 1 Rev. 
P. Born was called as English pastor. Soon after this Rev. 
Shindel suffered a stroke of paralysis and was able to do little 
more active work, and died in 1853. 

Rev. P. Born's pastorate lasted from 1851-1859. He preached 
at Plum Run and Stone Church in addition to Sunbury. His 
pastorate marks the beginning of the exclusive use of English 
in the services. 

In 1853 it was decided to build a new church. On Septem- 
ber 8, 1854, the cornerstone of the new church was laid, and on 
Christmas, 1855, the new church was dedicated. Rev. B. Kurtz, 
D.D., LL.D., of Baltimore, Editor of the Lutheran Observer, and 



I56 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

George Parson, D. D., of Muricy, President of the East Penn- 
sylvania Synod, took part in the dedicatory services. The new 
church was built on the site of the previous building. It was a 
brick structure, built at a cost of about $5,000. An interesting 
innovation in connection with the new building was that from 
this time on the congregation might seat itself by families — up 
to this time there had been separate pews for the men and wo- 
men. Dr. Born resigned to accept the principalship of the 
Classical Department of Missionary Institute at Selinsgrove. 

The pastorate of Rev. P. Rizer was brief. He came from 
Xew Berlin to the Sunbury charge in November, 1859, and re- 
mained until 1 861, when the great Civil war opened, and he be- 
came a chaplain in the army. 

During 18.61, M. Rhodes, then a student in Missionary Insti- 
tute at Selinsgrove, supplied the Sunbury charge. In 1862 he 
was licensed by the Synod and became regular pastor. The 
charge at this time included Sunbury and Northumberland, and 
paid a salary of $450, tho the salary was increased during this 
pastorate. In 1867, Dr. Rhodes resigned to accept a call to 
Zion Lutheran church of Lebanon. 

Rev. G. W. Hemperly, of Sharon Springs, N. Y., was elected 
as Dr. Rhodes' successor, and served until 1876. Among the 
accomplishments of the church during this pastorate was the 
building of an addition to the rear of the church, at a cost of 
$5,580, which was all provided for when the dedicatory exer- 
cises took place. Rev. Dr. F. W. Conrad preached the dedica- 
tory sermon. A parsonage was also built, at a cost of $4,000. 
Under Rev. Hemperly the Sunday School developed very rap- 
idly, and its membership increased from about 130 to 500. A 
Y. M. C. A. was also organized. The Northumberland congre- 
gation had but 25 members when Rev. Hemperly took up the 
work, but by the end of his pastorate had 200 members, and be- 
came a separate charge. 

The successor of Rev. Hemperly was the Rev. George Par- 
son, whose pastorate began in December, 1876 and continued 
until 1884. During this period large increases were made in the 
membership of the church and Sunday School. Extensive re- 
arrangements and improvements in the equipment of the Sun- 
day School were made. Dr. Parson was stricken with an attack 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



157 



of typhoid malaria in 1884 and, as his condition did not improve 
rapidly, resigned, but continued to live in Sunbury. 

March 1, 1885, the Rev. S. G. Shannon began a pastorate 
which continued until March 31, 1889. The notable achievement 
during this period was the erection of the church in which the 



Wrf 



tr 




^J: £;j~ ^ >T -_ £ \J "~ j 



I 

it- 



Proposed Zions, Sunbury 



congregation now worships. The increasing railroad traffic 
made the Third Street location undesirable and a lot was pur- 
chased at Market and Fifth Streets for $5,000. Ground was 
broken for the new church August 2, 1886, and the corner-stone 
was laid in the following October. The dedication exercises 
took place June 7-8, 1888. Among the outsiders taking part in 
this event were the Revs. J. Yutzy. of Selinsgrove ; J. II. Men- 
ges, of Philadelphia, and j. A. Wirt, of Hughesviile. The 



1 58 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

church is a large brick structure trimmed with stone. The total 
cost, including the lot, was $26,587.09, and this sum was en- 
tirely subscribed by the close of the day of dedication. The old 
parsonage was sold and a new parsonage was erected, adjoining 
the new church. The publication of a parish paper, Zion's Her- 
ald, was begun in 1886. A Young Peoples' Society of Christian 
Endeavor was organized in 1888. 

On September 1, 1889, the Rev. J. H. Weber, D. D., became 
pastor and remained until his death on January 8, 1908. 

On March 31, 1891 the one hundredth anniversary of the 
erection of the first church building was celebrated. All the 
living ex-pastors were invited to attend. Dr. P. Born, of Selins- 
grove, was unable to attend on account of the serious illness of 
his wife, but addresses and reminiscences were delivered by the 
following: Revs. M. J. Alleman,, of York, Pa. ; M. Rhodes, D. D., 
of St. Louis, Mo. ; G. W. Hemperly, of Cobleskill, N. Y. ; George 
Parson, D. D., of Sunbury, and S. G. Shannon, of Philadelphia. 
The fiftieth anniversary of the Sunday School was observed on 
the same day, when special honors were paid to Mr. John Haas, 
Mr. Solomon Stroh, and Mrs. Mary Stroh, who had been very 
active in the work of the Sunday School during the whole, per- 
iod of its existence. 

A branch Sunday School was organized in September, 1890, 
in a school house at the corner of Spruce and Second Streets, 
which within eight months had a membership of about 250. 

Rev. J. M. Francis, D. D., of Springfield, Illinois, was called 
to become the successor of Dr. Weber, and began his work in 
Sunbury May 17, 1908. His pastorate continued until August 
31, 1 91 6, when he resigned to accept a call to Waynesboro, Pa. 
In 191 1 a lot adjoining the church property was purchased at a 
cost of $14,000, and the building of a new Sunday School chapel 
was begun. This chapel was dedicated on March 24, 191 2, when 
addresses were made by the Revs. J. H. Musselman, of Dan- 
ville, Pa., and F. R. Wagner, of Huntingdon, Pa. The parson- 
age was also extensively remodeled. 

In March, 1910, an important progressive step was taken, 
when, following a sermon on Foreign Missions by the pastor, this 
action was taken by the congregation: 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN" CHURCH 159 

''Resolved. That we. the congregation of Zion Lutheran 
Church of Sunbury, Pa., in congregational meeting assembled 
this 28th day of March, 19 10. support Rev. Charles H. Brosius 
as our Foreign Missionary pastor at the Muhlenberg Mission, 
Monrovia, Africa, at a salary of $750." 

In connection with this new missionary activity, a new system 
of finances was established which more than doubled the benevo- 
lent offerings. 

The development of the congregation and of the various aux- 
iliary organizations was very rapid during the pastorate of Dr. 
Francis. The Sunday School more than doubled in attendance 
and has a membership of over 1700. 1327 persons were received 
into church membership. The offerings for benevolence totaled 
828,400 and for current expenses $92,000. 

The church and the Sunday school room have proved much 
too small to accommodate the congregation, and action has been 
taken to erect a new and modern church edifice at a cost of 
about $65,000, and plans are now being perfected for this build- 



IJst of Pastors, Zion Church, Sunbury 

John Herbst. 

Geistweiter. 

Unger. 

Christian Espich, before 1791-1812 (,). 

J. P. Shindel, 1812-1853. 

M. J. Alleman (English pastor), 1849-1851. 

Peter Born. D. D., 1851-1859. 

P. Rizer, 1859-1861. 

M. Rhodes, D. D.. 1861-1867. 

G. W. Hemperly. 1867-1876. 

George Parson, D. D., 1876- 1884 

S. G. Shannon. 1884-1889. 

T. H. Weber, D. D.. 1889-1908. 

J. M. Francis, D. D., 1908-1916. 

C. R. Bowers, 19 17- 



l60 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

PLUM CREEK CHARGE. 
Eden Church. 

Eden Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Plum Creek, was or- 
ganized in 1844 by Rev. J. P. Shindel, the first officers and sign- 
ers of the Constitution being George Drear, George Savage, 
George Fasold, Philip Weiser, Henry Fasold, and Daniel Con- 
rad. In addition to these, forty-six members composed the orig- 
inal congregation. 

The erection of a church edifice was immediately begun and 
the corner-stone laid on the 22nd of April, 1844, Rev. J. P. 
Shindel officiating. It was a one-story frame building, situated 
on the Plum Creek road, four miles east of Sunbury, in Rocke- 
feller Township. It served as a place of worship until 1873, 
when it was removed and the present two-story brick edifice 
erected. This was dedicated October 12, 1873, at which time 
Rev. A. K. Zimmerman was pastor. Since that time it has 
served well as a place of worship until the present time (icj 1 /)- 

It is now being- repaired and when completed will be one oi 
the nicest country churches of the East. New fancy German 
glass memorial windows have replaced the old ones. A beauti- 
fnl painting of the Resurrection has been placed in the front oi 
the church. New carpet, new metal ceiling, and a large bell 
have been contributed. The inside is arranged in threes to rep- 
resent the Holy Trinity and is all newly painted. In a short 
time, after the gasoline lighting system has been finished, the 
church will be dedicated. 

At this time Reverend Charles Lantz serves the congregation, 
the following having been his predecessors: Reverends J. P. 
Shindel, Peter Born, D. D., Geo. P. Weaver, A. H. Shertz, Jo- 
seph Focht, E. E. Berry A. K. Zimmerman, G. E. Harsh, Sid- 
ney E. Bateman, A. C. Felker, Cyrus E. Benson, Wm. Trestle, 
J. W. Shaffer, A. C. Forscht, C. W. Fritch, L. G. StaufTer. E. 
Gilbert, J. M. Stover. 

St. Peter's. 

St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Hollowing Run, 
was organized by Rev. Peter Born, D. D., in 1859, at a grove 
in the valley of Hollowing Run. There were twenty-five con- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH i6l 

stituent members, from whom Isaac Drummheller and Moses 
Reitz were elected as deacons, and Samuel Reitz and Geo. Weiser 
as elders. 

The church building, a one-story frame edifice, was dedicated 
January i, i860, by Rev. Peter Born, D. D., and H. Zeigler, 
D. D. Since then the church has been repainted and several 
changes made so that now it is a neat and comfortable place of 
worship. 

It has been served by the following pastors : Born, Zeigler,, 
Weaver, Shertz, Focht, Berry, Zimmerman, Harsh, Batemam. 
Felker, Benson, Trostle, Shaffer, Forscht, Fritch, Stauffer, Gil- 
bert, Stover, and Lantz. 

St. John's, Snydertown. 

St. John's Lutheran and Reformed Church of Snydertown 
was organized in 1828 with the following members : John Evert,. 
John Smith, Samuel Gonsar, Jacob Hoover, Geo. Arnold, Val- 
entine Klase, Jacob Klase, Abraham Klase, Andrew Smith, An- 
drew Kanderman, Benjamin Kanderman, Michael Evert, Wm. 
Martz and wife, Peter Keffer, John Keffer, Daniel Keffer, John 
Evert, Jr., Solomon Evert, and Solomon Hartzel. 

Mr. John Evert presented the congregation with an acre of 
land upon a part of which a frame church edifice was erected,, 
while the remainder of the land is still in use as a burial ground. 
In 1870 the congregation purchased a lot on the opposite side of 
the road and erected thereon a brick edifice forty by sixty feet 
at a cost of $4,108.66. A separation occurring between the Re- 
formed and Lutheran elements of the congregation, the Lu- 
theran party purchased a lot and built the present large, beauti- 
ful building as it now is. 

The following Lutheran pastors served the congregation : 
Shindel, Wampole, Shertz, Vought, Rizer, Berry, Zimmerman,. 
Frederick, Harsh, Bateman, Benson, Shannon, Trostle, Shaffer, 
Forscht, Fritch, Stauffer, Gilbert, Stover and Lantz. 

Zion. 

Zion, or Stone, Lutheran and Reformed Church is located on 
the Tulpehocken road six and a-half miles southeast of Sun- 
bury and two miles northwest of Trevorton. The ground was 

Luth. Synod — 11 



1 62 



THE SUSOUEHAXXA SYNOD 




01 THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 163 

presented by Dr. Martin Raker in 1814 and some of the timbers 
for the building were prepared in that year, but it was not com- 
pleted until 1 8 16. It is a stone structure, two stories high. 
Originally it was but one story with galleries around three sides. 
At a meeting on the 18th of January, 1861, it was decided to 
substitute a second story for the galleries. This was accom- 
plished during the year under the supervision of Elias Emric 
and J. F. Lerch. 

Some years later the building was remodelled at a cost of five 
hundred dollars. The first organization occurred in 1806 with 
eight members. For a while public worship was conducted in a 
log school house which stood about four hundred yards from the 
present church edifice. The school house was constructed with 
a swinging partition in the middle ; one end of the building thus 
being used as a school room and the other as a dwelling for the 
teacher. On the occasion of public preaching the partition was 
swung open and the entire space used as a place of worship. 

Among those most prominent in the original erection of a 
church edifice were Geo. Long, Wm. Reeser, Samuel Bloom, 
Geo. Haupt, Martin Raker, Jacob Raker, Geo. Baker. Wm. Bar- 
tholomew, Jacob Zimmerman, and Geo. Savage. 

Rev. J. P. Shindel was pastor in 18 16 when the building was 
dedicated. It is now over one hundred years old and with a few 
late repairs is still in a good state of preservation. 

The following Lutheran pastors served the congregation: 
Shindel (1813-1851), Born, Weaver, Shertz, Focht, Berry, Zim- 
merman, Hersh, Bateman, Felker, Benson, Trostle, Shaffer, 
Forscht, Fritch, Stauffer, Gilbert, Stover, and Lantz. 

Written by Melvin C. Drumm, with aid from history of 
Northumberland County, April 19, 191 7. 



TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 

CLINTON COUNTY, PA. 
(Avis was formerly known as Oak Grove and Centre Oak.) 

When the New York Central and Hudson River Railroad sys- 
tem located shops at what is now Avis, and laid out an extension 



164 THE; SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

distribution yard for the Fall Brook and Beech Creek divisions, 
a town began to develop rapidly. 

The Susquehanna Synod and its West Branch Conference gave 
attention to this new field very promptly. An appointment was 
made for a meeting to be held in the Oak Grove school house, 
June 1st, 1902, to consider the matter of organization. Rev. Dr. 
J. Yutzey was present and after delivering a sermon called the 
meeting to order and an organization was effected. I. S. Garner 
was elected president, J. A. Gisewite, vice president; W. P. Dor- 
man, secretary; Joseph Martin, treasurer. I. S. Garner proposed 
the name "Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church," which was 
unanimously adopted. 

The following were then enrolled as charter members: I. S. 
Garner, Mrs. I. S. Garner, J. A. and Lavina Guisewite, W. P. and 
Hannah C. Dorma, Jane Dute, Jos. and Mrs. Jos. Martin, Chas. 
H. and Mrs. Chas. H. Brobst, Clara J. Conrod, Nellie Earon, 
Chas. Conrod, Jacob M. Sands, M. J. and Margaret Hanna. The 
meeting adjourned with the Doxology and Benediction by Dr. 
Yutzey. 

A second congregational meeting was held in the home of Jos. 
Martin, June 14, 1902, at which a council was elected. I. S. Gar- 
ner and Joseph Martin were chosen as Elders, and J. A. Guise- 
wite, W. P. Dorman, Chas. H. Brobst, and M. J. Hanna as Dea- 
cons. Council organized by the election of W. P. Dorman, sec- 
retary, and Jos. Martin, treasurer. A constitution was adopted at 
this meeting. A building committee was also elected as follows : 
I. S. Garner, Jos, Martin, and W. P. Dorman. At the evening 
congregational meeting Rev. J. E. Zimmerman, of Susquehanna 
University, was elected to become the first pastor of this church. 

On Monday morning at 5 o'clock a little company gathered at 
the church lot, and after singing hymn No. 292 and prayer by Dr. 
Yutzey ground was broken. The site comprises two lots centrally 
located upon a corner. One was donated by the Susquehanna 
Synod and the other by the Oak Grove Loan Improvement Asso- 
ciation. They were selected by Drs. Bannen and Griffith. 

At a congregational meeting held in the school house, June 22,. 
1902, conducted by Rev, John H. Barb, D.D., of Hughesville, 
representing the Synod, it was agreed, that with the concurrence 
of the Board of Home Missions and the Garman church, a salary 
of $600.00 and parsonage should be paid Rev. Zimmerman. The 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



165 



salary to be apportioned as follows: Trinity church, $100.00; 
Board of Home Missions, $250.00, and Garman church, $250.00. 
The joint council was instructed to forward the call. It was also 
decided to build a church costing about $1,200.00 to $1,400.00. 

September 14, 1902, a loan of $500.00 from the Board of 
Church Extension was authorized. Saturday evening, September 
1, 1902, Rev. Fickinger preached in the school house, and on Sun- 




Trinitv Church, Avis 



day morning Rev. J. M. Anspach, D.D., President of Synod, 
after preaching in the Grove, proceeded with the congregation to 
the chunch lot, and with the usual ceremonies, laid the corner 
stone. 

December 28, 1902, a Sunday School was organized with I. S. 
Garner, superintendent, W. P. Dorman; assistant superintendent, 
Miss Cora Pennsyl ; secretary, Miss Carrie Hanna ; assistant sec- 
retary ; O. J. Dressier, treasurer ; Chas. H. Brobst and H. H. Fied- 
ler, librarians, and Mrs. H. H. Fiedler, organist. A Luther 
League was also organized with Mrs. J. E. Zimmerman, presi- 
dent; Mrs. Margaret Hanna, vice-president; Miss Dressier, re- 



l66 THE; SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

cording secretary; Miss Bessie Garner, corresponding secretary, 
and Mrs. Hanna, treasurer. 

The church was completed at a cost of $1,611.27, and was dedi- 
cated February 1, 1903. Dr. Yutzey delivered the sermon, and 
Rev. D. E. Rupley solicited subscriptions. $458.26 was sub- 
scribed. Rev. Zimmerman closed his labors in this pastorate April 
I, I905- 



HOLY TRINITY— BERWICK 
By Rev. C. R. Botsford 

The history of Berwick is most interesting. The story oi tlie 
town goes back to the eighteenth century. The founders of the 
community were English, but Evan Evans, who laid out the vil- 
lage in 1787, set aside a lot for the Lutheran church. This prop- 
erty was acquired by the General Council branch of our church, 
and later disposed of for another location. 

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity was 
organized January 15, 1893, in the Y. M. C. A. building, by the 
Rev. Charles M. Aurand, D. D. The congregation worshiped 
there and in the opera house until December, 1894, when a 
handsome and churchly edifice was completed. There were 21 
charter members and these have increased until at this time the 
church has about 300 active members. The founders of the 
church were of heroic mold. They faced great difficulties with 
determination and sublime faith. Dr. Aurand was instrumental 
in securing a most valuable lot for the seat of the new church. 
Through his untiring efforts the building was completed and fur- 
nished. He closed his labors December 31, 1898, having served 
exactly six years. 

The second pastor was the Rev. Montraville McHenry Allbeck, 
who left a successful work at Millville to take up the arduous 
service of the Berwick mission. He began his labors April, 1899. 
This pastorate was marked by self-sacrificing toil on the part of 
pastor and people. Decided progress was made both financially 
and numerically. The outstanding event of this regime was the 
establishment in West Berwick of the Grace Mission, the wisdom 
of which is manifest in the fine church property and noble people 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 167 

of that successful church. Rev. Allbeck completed his work in 
the spring of 1904. 

In the summer of 1904 the Rev. W. Morgan Cross became 
pastor. He served the church until the following year, resigning 
in August, 1905. The church was without a pastor for several 
months, but the membership was loyal and kept the fires of the 
congregation burning. 



t 


m*Jmk~ * 








' ' •"; "•> " 




>~ m C 




~ r ~ h " ilm — : ' » 



Holy Trinity Church, Berwick 

For three months, January-March, 1906, the Rev. John Brown 
Focht, D. D., served the congregation as a stated supply most 
acceptably. It was at this time that the burdensome debt was so 
arranged that its liquidation followed in a few years. 

The Rev. Chauncey Robert Botsford entered upon his pastor- 
ate July 1, 1906, coming from his first charge — Northumberland. 
It was during this pastorate that Jehiada's Chest was estab- 
lished at the suggestion of John C. Oberdorf as a means of secur- 
ing funds with which to pay the debt of the congregation. The 
simple method was eminently successful, and in January, 191 5, 
the people held a jubilee because of the satisfied obligation. A 



l68 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

legacy of about $2,000 from Mrs. Mary Irvine was an event of 
ibis period. The church became self-supporting July 1, 1913. 
This pastorate terminated October 1, 191 5, when Rev. Bots- 
ford became field secretary of Susquehanna University. 

The present active and aggressive pastor is the Rev. Charles 
S. Bottiger, who began his labors in December, 191 5. Under 
his leadership rapid progress has been made. Many persons have 
been received into church fellowship. The need of enlarged quar- 
ters for the growing Sunday School has compelled the church to 
build, and the beautiful site is now having a large,modern struc- 
ture added to the original building. " This gives Holy Trinity 
the equipment she needs so much to care for the people who are 
coming in ever larger numbers to worship and to work. 



GRACE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF 
WEST BERWICK, PA. 

In the prosecution of his labors as missionary pastor of Holy 
Trinity Church of Berwick, Rev. M. M. Allbeck made a canvass 
of the western section of the community. As a result of this 
canvass and the promise of a building boom for this end of the 
town a call was issued for the organization of a Sunday School. 
Permission was granted by the School Board of Briar Creek 
Township to use the old "White School House'' for religious 
services. The first session of the school was held on May 26, 
1 901, with fifty-three persons present. 

From this Sunday School grew the congregation which was 
formally organized on May 4, 1902, adopting a constitution and 
by-laws and taking the name of Grace Evangelical Lutheran 
Church of West Berwick, Pa. There were twelve charter mem- 
bers. To these a charter of incorporation was granted by the 
Courts of Columbia County on July 18, 1902. A lot was pur- 
chased at the corner of Arch Street and Fairview Avenue. The 
cornerstone of the church was laid on September 21, 1902, and 
on December 28, 1902, the church building, was dedicated to the 
service of God. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



l6g 



Because of the importance of the work demanding such atten- 
tion as only a resident pastor could give, the founder of this new 
congregation relinquished his work, preaching his last sermon on 
April 12, 1903. All the work and labor of founding and taking 




Grace Church, West Berwick 



care of this congregation for almost two years was rendered by 
the Rev. M. M. Allbeck without compensation. Great credit 
belongs to him for his self-sacrificing efforts in the building up 
of our Zion. 

Rev. H. E. Harman was elected as pastor and began his work 
on April 15, 1903. The community began to enlarge rapidly and 
the congregation entered upon a period of prosperity with growth 
in membership and in material things. The Sunday School out- 



170 THE SUSOUKHAXXA SYNOD 

grew the church building and on September 18, 1904, ground 
was broken for an addition to the church building for Sunday 
School purposes. The re-opening and re-dedicatory services 
were held on January 24, 1905. Other improvements had been 
made to the church property and the auditorium of the church 
beautified and refurnished. On July 3, 1905, ground was broken 
for the fine parsonage which was erected at a cost of $4,500. 
This was occupied by the pastor and his family on February 1, 
1906. Rev. Harman resigned after nine years of service, leaving* 
the pastorate of Grace Church on February 1, 1912. 

The present pastor is Rev. Clarence E. Arnold, who took 
charge on April 10, 1912. During the present pastorate the 
church property has been materially improved, the chancel fit- 
tingly furnished, the aid received from the Mission Board reduced 
with the promise of the early assuming of self-support, and the 
church debt has been almost entirely paid, with all of it covered 
by subscriptions. 

The congregation now has a membership of over two hun- 
dred and is possessed of a property worth above $10,000. The 
excellent work that has been done in the community in the past 
is a token of a still larger future for the glory of God and the 
bringing of the kingdom. 



ST. PAUL'S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF 
MARTZVILLE, PA. 

The history of this congregation, situated in Briar Creek 
Township, of Columbia County, was never recorded in writing* 
and Minutes of Synods and Church Book reveal very little con- 
cerning the congregation's origin and activity. A number of 
the pastors did not record even their ministerial acts so that their 
service is merely a matter of tradition. The congregation first 
met in the brick school house situated below the present location 
of the church. The first communion service was held on March 
3, 1861, at which fifteen communicants were present, twelve of 
them being of the Martz family from which the community takes 
its name. The first pastor was Rev. John Swartz, D. D., during 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



I/I 



whose pastorate the church building was erected in 1867, & i s 
said. The lot for the church was donated by Abraham Martz 
and it was by the gifts and industry of the Martz family largely 
that the church was built. The pastors who have served the 
congregation so far as they are known are Rev. John Swartz, 



"\* r 


mk 


All 


'■ &i 



St. Paul's Church, Martzville 

D. D., Rev. A. H. Shertz, Rev. E. A. Sharretts, D. D.. Rev. 
M. V. Shadow, Rev. J. V. Bodine, Rev. Krebs, Revs. S. X. Car- 
penter and H. C. Michael as student supplies. Rev. H. E. Har- 
rnan, and Rev. Clarence E. Arnold from April, 1912, to the 
present time. 



ST. MATTHEW'S LUTHERAN CHURCH. BLOOMS- 
BURG, PA. 

By John Edward Byhrs. 



Historical Sketch. 

It has been a difficult matter to obtain absolutely correct infor- 
mation about the earliest clays of Lutheranism in Bloomsburg 



1~2 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

because the records that are at hand now are very incomplete. 
We have gleaned from the best sources available the following 
interesting facts which give us some idea at least of the begin- 
nings and growth and life of this large and influential church 
in this community. In Bloomsburg as well as throughout Col- 
umbia County and elsewhere the pioneers of our faith, in the 
establishment of our beloved church, underwent many hardships 
and faced many difficulties. The earliest settlers were for a while 
without a church and pastor but kept alive in their hearts the 
spirit of piety and godliness by a devoted use in their homes of 
the catechism and hymn-book and whatever few other devotional 
books they happened to possess. 

Before any regular organization took place, preaching and some 
pastoral service were furnished by the frontier missionary as 
well as by pastors from other towns further east and south who 
made occasional visits to this locality. The names of some such 
visiting ministers are Seeley, She r rets. Plitt, Pauls Baughey. 
Stork. 

For a brief period the Episcopal church of town opened her 
doors to the Lutherans for their use in public worship. It seems 
a well authenticated fact that Rev. Frederitze was here as early as 
1800 and preached in that church for our people. When for 
some reason, not now known, the courtesy of this church privi- 
lege was denied them, the little band of Lutherans, numbering 
only 17, heroically resolved to build their church. The structure 
was to be of logs, and each person offered to furnish his share 
of the same and deliver them on the ground. The Reformed 
Church pioneers being in similar need were invited to co-operate 
in the new church project. The proposition was agreeable to 
them, so that unitedly in the year 1807 they began to build the 
original old los: church on the hill, now the S. E. corner of First 
and Centre streets. The cemetery that adjoined still remains. 

The name of the church at that time was St. Paul's, which 
name it bore until the time of the incorporation of the church 
in 1856 when the name was changed to St. Matthew's Evangeli- 
cal Lutheran Church of Bloomsburg-. Pa. 

There is little record of the years immediately following. Ar- 
ticles of agreement between the congregations were adopted in 
May, 1808. Each denomination was to have the use of the 
church on alternate Sundavs. Notwithstanding; this, the mem- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH !"/$ 

bers of both congregations attended all the services, whether 
Lutheran or Reformed, making their contributions and paying 
their bills jointly. An annual settlement was made each year 
at a joint meeting of the two official boards of the church. 

Rev. Frederick Plitt, 1808. 

The first Lutheran pastor of whom record is found is the Rev. 
Frederick Plitt, although the same record says that before his 
coming the Rev. Frederitze was here exercising some care over 
the Lutheran flock and preaching to the people. In this early 
period the German language was used exclusively. Later on 
the English was introduced and used alternately with the Ger- 
man. About 185 1 English only was used in the public worship. 
We have no detailed record of this pastorate. 

1 809- 1 829. 

There is some uncertainty about the next pastorate. One au- 
thority says that Rev. J. Frederick Engle was pastor from 1809 
to 1816. Another omits mention of him entirely, and says that 
the Rev. Peter Kessler came in 1810. There is agreement in 
the fact that the Rev. Kessler was pastor until late in the twen- 
ties, probably until 1829. Naturally little is known about the 
history of these twenty years. 

Rev. Jeremiah Shindle, 1830-1837. 

The records show that this pastorate was a very earnest and 
aggressive one and that the numerical strength of the congre- 
gation increased very considerably. 

Rev. Wm. J. Ever, 1837-1844; 1846-1850. 

Of Rev. Eyer's pastorate we have little knowledge more than 
that he was an active, faithful, devoted pastor who won the 
esteem of the entire community and endeared himself especially 
ro the hearts of his own people. His recall after an absence of 
two years is proof of the high regard in which he was held and 
of the appreciation of his labors on the part of the congregation. 

Rev. Charles YVitmer, 1844-1845. 
Rev. M. J. Alleman, 1845-1846. 
Two short pastorates followed the first of Rev. Ever. The 
one was that of Rev. Chas. Witmer who had frequently assisted 



1/4 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




172 



OE THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 1/5 

Rev. Eyer. He lived at Catawissa and was pastoi for about one 
year. 

The other was that of Rev. M. J. Alleman who also served 
about one year. He lived in Danville. After these two short 
pastorates the congregation turned again, as stated above, to the 
Rev. Eyer who had served them so acceptably before for a pe- 
riod of seven years. 

Rev. William Weaver, 1851-1853. 

We have no record of the work of these two years. After 
the departure of Rev. Weaver the church was without a pastor 
for nearly two years. This long vacancy proved a very un- 
profitable experience for the church and its development. 

Rev. E. A. Sharretts, 1854-1859. 

Rev. Sharretts came highly recommended to the disheartened 
congregation and began his ministry on April 1st, 1854. Dr. P. 
A. Heiman in his anniversary sermon as pastor in 1892 writes 
thus of him and his minstry here : "This was his first pastorate. 
He found a scattered and disheartened flock, and it was with 
difficulty that their new and small pastor rallied them to the 
work. But he proved a very David among them. Slaying the 
giant Despair, and gathering- the people together until he gained 
their confidence and esteem, he impressed upon them the neces- 
sity of building a church of their own where they could have 
service every Sabbath — a building that would be more in keep- 
ing with the progress of the times and the enterprise of the 
people. But this was a Herculean task. The people were poor, 
the town was small, the membership of the church only about 
one hundred." Mr. J. Eyer gave impulse to the project of agree- 
ing to give the lot and a good subscription besides. Jacob Eyer, 
John Grotz, Philip Unangst, Jacob Beidleman, John Kressler 
were the building committee. The new church was dedicated 
Sept. 20th, 1857. ^ was ^ ie largest and best in the town at that 
time. Great credit was due both pastor and people. 

Rev. J. R. Dimm, 1859-1867. 

This was Dr. Dimm's first pastorate. Very early he saw the 
importance of paying off the indebtedness that remained on the 
new church. This work required tactful and persistent effort. 



176 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

But after such effort and with much self-denial the debt was 
entirely paid. The pastorate of Dr. Dimm was made trying by 
reason of the war feeling which ran high in Bloomsburg and 
Columbia county. The situation was carefully handled, however, 
and Dr. Dimm carried away with him the love and esteem of the 
people as well as a record of splendid and successful work done. 

Rev. B. F. Alleman, 1867-1872. 

As did his predecessors Dimm and Sharretts, so did Dr. Alle- 
man find in Bloomsburg his first pastorate. Steady progress 
characterized the five years of his ministry. The Sunday School 
reached a total of 300 members and a fine large library was se- 
cured. The church was renovated and a gallery built in the rear 
of the auditorium. In 1871 a parsonage was purchased. It was 
located on the corner of Third and West streets. Loved by all 
Dr. Alleman left for another field in 1872. 

Rev. J. R. Williams, 1872-1875. 
Rev. John McCron, 1875-1877. 
Rev. O. D. S. Marclay, 1877-1881. 

Each of these pastors did a faithful work and had the joy of 
seeing the church move forward in numbers and usefulness dur- 
ing their ministry. The parsonage burned during Dr. McCron's 
time entailing a big loss for both pastor and congregation. Large 
additions to membership marked the ministry of both Rev. Wil- 
liams and Marclay. Although young in years and exceedingly 
useful in the church, Rev. Marclay was stricken with a serious 
illness while pastor here, and died on Jan. 10, 1881, aged 39 years. 

Rev. F. P. Manhart, 1881-1889. 

During the vacancy following Rev. Marclay's death, Rev. 
Manhart was frequently called upon to preach as a supply. He 
was called later as pastor and accepted the call. He served faith- 
fully and successfully for eight years. The membership in- 
creased to 350. Various changes and improvements were made 
at a cost of more than a $1,000. A pipe organ was secured; fine 
pulpit and altar furniture were placed ; and a baptismal font was 
given. His was a splendid work. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 177 

Rev. P. A. Heilman, 1890-1896. 

Almost the first move was to build a new parsonage. This 
was done upon the present location at a cost of about $4,000. 
The church again came in for renovation and some changes, 
especially in the lower room. In 1893 stained glass windows 
were purchased. About this time the rear g-allery was removed 
and a smaller one was placed in the front of the church. The 
church now was well organized in all the departments. And all 
organizations helped greatly in the work. On account of ill 
health Rev. Heilman resigned on May 1, 1896. 

Rev. M/E. McLinn, 1896- 1903. 

Neither church nor parsonage buildings needed attention now. 
But Rev. McLinn did a splendid work in clearing up all indebt- 
edness. His was a very devoted ministry. His pastoral work 
was most assiduous. Under his leadership the congregation 
continued to grow and do a fine work. It was of large influence 
in all the Christian activities of the town. 

Rev. John Edward Byers, 1903-Dec, 19 16. 

The present pastor began his ministry here June 1st, 1903. He 
found a church well organized in every way and second in num- 
bers in Bloomsburg. The same is true of it today, although the 
numbers are larger as far as all departments are concerned. 
During the first year of his pastorate a large new pipe organ was 
placed. An addition to the rear of the church was built to ac- 
commodate the same. The church was repapered and carpeted 
about the same time. One of the things this pastorate will be 
remembered for is the celebration of the 100th anniversary of 
the building of the first Lutheran church in Bloomsburg ; also 
the 50th of the building of the present edifice. The important 
feature of the occasion was the starting of a fund for a new 
church. The need of this in the near future was evident to all. 
About $7,000 was subscribed toward the fund. Since the anni- 
versary the need and desire for a new church has been growing 
and several splendid contributions have been added to the fund. 
Growth has come to the church in every way. The pastor has 
tried to keep abreast of all the best in the way of methods and 
organization. The people are active and interested. The church 
is recognized as a powerful religious force in the community. 

Luth. Synod — 12 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



Church Organizations. 



The congregation has always been ready for the advanced 
methods and ways that were wise and good. Early in the 1830's 
the Sunday School was organized. It has always been a pros- 
perous school, growing in numbers and developing in efficiency 
to the present time. 

The Ladies' Aid Society has also an honorable record as one 
uf the Church's very helpful auxiliaries. Their help is princi- 
pally along financial lines ; and in this field they have wrought 
wonders almost a good many times. This society is now a very 
active and successful agency in the church proving itself of 
indispensable value in the new church project. 

The Women's Missionary Society was organized with the first 
in the Synod, and has maintained a front rank position always. 
For several years it was the largest and strongest society in the 
Synod. It is yet one of the first. 

Young People's Societies were organized early in the history 
of such movements and have been always very active and help- 
ful. Besides two C. E. Societies at present we have also two 
organizations among the young people along missionary lines. 

The Brotherhood and Adult Bible classes are trying to care 
for the men of the congregation and doing it with much success. 
All in all we have today a well organized church in every way, 
one that is going forward to larger things, one that is taking its 
place in the community as a religious force of great value. 

The Church has given to the ministry and Missionary work 
the following persons: Rev. Thomas Pritchard, deceased; Rev. 
T. B. Birch, Ph. D., Springfield, Ohio; Rev. Wm. L,. Crist; Rev. 
Frank M. Traub, A. M., Liberia, Africa; Miss Mary E. Lowe, 
Missionary, Guntur, India ; Rev. Karl E. Irvin, Dubois, Pa. 



BUCKHORN CHARGE. 

St. Peter's Church, New Columbia. 

This is a union church which has been used by four denomina- 
tions. In 1832 a stone, one-story church building was erected 
in what is now the grave yard, just to the right of the gate. It 



OF THE EYAXGELICAL LUTHERAX CHURCH 



i/9 



served as a church, a school house and as a community center. 
It might well have done service in these early frontier days as 
a fort. Prof. G. W. Styer, of Montoursville, has in his possession 
one of the first chandeliers used in the old church, in which 




St. Peter's Church, New Columbia 



candles were burned. John Leidy, a Revolutionary Hero, was the 
first person buried in the grave yard. 

A new building was erected in 1870 and dedicated on December 
eighth of that year. The following ministers took part in the 
dedicatory service : D. J, Waller, A. B. Jack. John Thomas, Rev. 
Mehr. 

In 1874 sheds were built for the horses. In 1910 new carpet 
was purchased and the church painted inside and out. The plat- 



l8o THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

form was lowered and enlarged, a metal ceiling installed and 
new pulpit furnishings were bought. 

An active C. E. Society was organized in 1890. 

The cemetery is one of the best known in the county and has 
an historic record. In it repose the bodies of nineteen soldiers 
who fought in the following wars: Revolution, War of 1812, 
Mexican and the War of the Rebellion. A cannon which had 
been captured from the Confederates was presented by the gov- 
ernment to the Cemetery Association and has been mounted at 
the main entrance. 

Only two congregations now worship here, the Presbyterians 
and Lutherans. 

Very little indeed is known of the early pastors. Among the 
list of older names, however, we find those of Revs. Seely, Plitt, 
Pauls, Cramer, Baughy, Eyer, Willard, Hinkley, Ograt, Horn- 
berger, and Lesher. 

It is comparatively easy to locate the pastors since 1867 as 
many are still living and some are still serving pastorates in this 
and other synods. The names of pastors since that time will be 
found in the history of Christ's Church of the same Charge. 

St. Paui/s, Near Danviu,e. 

Rev. Elias Swartz in the winter of 1842 laid the foundation 
for this congregation by having revival -services in one of the 
nearby school houses. Occasional appointments were filled by 
him and his successors. 

Rev. F. Ruthrauf, pastor at Milton, also served the church in 
Danville and supplied this as a station. 

Rev. M. J. Alleman, who came to Danville in 1845, organized 
a church and prepared a constitution for the same in 1848. A 
one-story brick church was built in that year. Rev. Reuben 
Weiser had charge of the cornerstone laying. The dedication 
took place in October of the same year. Rev. Dr. Yeomans 
assisted the pastor at that service. 

Rev. P. Willard preached in the new church from 1850 to 1856; 
it belonged to the charge in which were placed Shamokin and 
Hanville. During the pastorate of Rev. Willard 65 infants and 
11 adults were baptized and 59 were confirmed. 

From 1856-60 Rev. J. M. Stover had charge, preaching every 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



181 



two weeks. Following him were Revs. Eli Huber, P. P. Lane, 
E. A. Sharretts, George M. Rhodes, and Uriel Graves. 

Rev. M. L. Shindel served the church for twenty years. At 
bis resignation the church became part of the Buckhorn Charge, 
having the same ministers as those given in connection with 
Christ's Church at Buckhorn. 

During the pastorate of Rev. P. B. Fassold extensive improve- 
ments were made. Large modern sheds for the horses were 




St. Paul's Church, Frosty Valley 



built during the pastorate of Rev. G. D. Strail. 

During the present pastorate the church edifice has been both 
tenovated and remodeled. 

A large Sunday School adds greatly to the success of the 
Lord's work at this point. 

Canby Lutheran Church, Milxerstowx. 

On Nov. 18th, 1859, in the school house at Millerstown, Rev. 
E. A. Sharrets, of Espy, organized a Lutheran congregation. 
At times the church has been a great power in the community, 
at others it seems to have been in a semi-dormant state. While 



182 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



120 Sunday School is maintained at present, it was formerly noted 
for that very feature. The pastors have been the same as those 
named in connection with this charge elsewhere, except that 
while it belonged to the Espy Charge Revs. Manifold, Minemier, 
and Rupley spent several years each and while Rev. P. B. Fas- 
sold was pastor of the Buckhorn Charge. 




Canby Church, Millerstown. 

Improvements were made during the pastorate of Rev. G. D. 
vStrail, and the whole building renovated during the present pas- 
torate. 

The church edifice was built in 1861. 



Christ's Church, Buckhorx. 

Rev. E. A. Sharretts in 1859 organized the scattered Lutheran 
families of the community into a congregation by holding a very 
successful revival meeting. There were sixty-three names on the 
charter. The services were held in the union church which is 
row used exclusively by a Methodist congregation. 

On August 1 st, 1869, R- ev - J- M- Ri ce ? a returned missionary 
from Africa, came on the field. A reorganization after the rav- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



183 



ages of the war was effected on August 20th, and Christ's Evan- 
gelical Lutheran Church became a part of the Espy Charge. 
The cornerstone of the church building was laid in 1869, Rev. 
Hemperly, of Selinsgrove, officiating. 

The church was dedicated on the 29th of November, by Rev. 
E. A. Sharretts, then President of Synod. 

In 1872 Rev. J. M. Reimensnyder was called to be the regular 
pastor. His chief success was along the line of Catechetical Work 




Christ's Church, Buckhorn 



and Revival services. He married Miss Creveliug, of Espy, and 
resigned in 1875. 

Two years later Rev. William Kelly, who had studied at one 
time for the Catholic priesthood, took charge. 

Again in 1878 Rev. E. A. Sharretts took charge of the work t 
remaining eight years. Large sheds for the horses were built 
at that time. 

Rev. M. O. T. Sahn followed with a pastorate of two years. 
Rev. A. R. Glaze took charge of the work on Memorial Day, 1889. 
A new organ was purchased and the church prospered under 
his care. 



184 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

In 1892 Rev. C. W. Sechrist succeeded him as pastor. He 
was the first to occupy the present parsonage. A large barn 
was built on the premises and a barber shop in the side yard was 
converted into a study for him. The Charge was then divided, 
Espy and Millertown withdrawing and the church at Millville 
and St. Paul's near Danville being- added. 

Rev. P. B. Fassold was the first pastor called to the new field. 
He began his work Nov. 1st, 1894. The parsonage debt was paid 
and a silver communion set was purchased. 

Rev. W. H. Hilbish had charge from 1901 to 1903. 

Rev. William J. Wagner took charge of the work in the same 
)ear. A new roof was put on the church and on part of the par- 
sonage. New heaters were placed in the Sunday School room. 

In 1 910 Rev. G. D. Strail took up the work. Improvements 
were made to the parsonage property and new pulpit furniture 
of seven pieces was purchased. 

After a year's vacancy the present pastor, Rev. E. A. Cham- 
berlin took charge. Both parsonage and church have been com- 
pletely renovated and God's work is prospering along all lines. 



BETHANY, MONTOURSA r ILLE. 
By Mr. J. R. Hutson. 

The Evangelical Lutheran Chrurch, Montoursville, Pennsyl- 
vania, was organized about the year 1830, the first services being 
held in the octagonal stone school house which stood on the north 
side of the road leading to Muncy, just east of Arch street, and 
in the corner of the old cemetery which is now abandoned. This 
soon became too small for services and eight years later, in 1838, 
the first church building in Montoursville, the White Church, 
•»vas erected near the octagonal school house by the Lutherans 
•and Presbyterians. 

It was built upon a plot of ground given for the purpose by 
J. Andrew Sheets. The funds necessary for the erection of the 
building and the furnishing of it was provided for by public 
subscription. The building was erected by John S. Konkle, a 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



l8: 



carpenter, he receiving a sum of two hundred dollars for his 
work. The building has been well preserved and is at present 
occupied as a dwelling. 




Bethany Church, Montoursvilh 



The Rev. George Parsons, of Muncy Charge, supplied the 
congregation with preaching until May, 1852, when he resigned. 
The congregation numbered 52 at that time. On the first Sun- 
day in May, 1853, Rev. Philip Sheeder was elected to the pas- 



1 86 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

torate. Following him the church had no regular pastor for 
some time and became disorganized until finally under the direc- 
tion of Rev. A. R. Horn, D. D., of Williamsport, the Rev. J. L. 
Smithdeal took up the work in May, 1866, and re-organized it 
with a membership of about 27. He served the charge until 
February, 1868, when Rev. J. G. Griffith began his work in 
March, 1868. 

August 31, 1869, the church was incorporated under the name 
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Montoursville. The 
incorporators were William Lewars, Michael Horlacher, James 
Strong, David Bubb, James S. Lewars, Leonard Buck, John 
Bruner, and J. G. Griffith. 

An agreement was entered into Dec. 22, 1869, between the 
trustees of the Lutheran and the trustees of the Presbyterian 
Church to sell the White Church and build the present Lutheran 
Church. 

The plot of ground upon which the church is situated was 
bought from Daniel Streibeigh in February, 1870, and was for- 
merly known as the Montoursville Tavern Stand. The purchase 
price of the ground $850.00' was paid for by the ladies of the 
Church, who were organized into an Aid Society. The means 
they used in raising the funds were similar to those used to-day : 
quilting bees, suppers, and so forth. 

The corner-stone was laid May 15, 1870, by the Masonic Order. 
The sermon being preached by Rev. J. R. Dimm, D. D., assisted 
by Rev. Marr, of the Presbyterian Church. The lecture room, 
of the building was completed in the autumn of 1870 but the au- 
ditorium was not completed until later, being dedicated May, 1878. 

One of the most efficient organizations of the Church is the 
Women's Home and Foreign Missionary Society. The first or- 
ganization was effected in May, 188 1, but the first record of reg- 
ular meetings is in 1883 and from that time the society has grown 
in interest and activity and now numbers 55 members with 28 
honorary members and 10 life members. The society always 
responded willingly to all calls made by the General Executive 
Committee and also has been very helpful in the local church 
work, aiding in every effort for improvement. The meetings 
are held regularly, the first Thursday of every month and the 
General Text Book is used at every meeting. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



187 




l88 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

In 1883 tne parsonage on Washington Street was purchased 
from Everhart Plankenhorn. 

Although the church was incorporated under the name of the 
Evangelical Lutheran Church of Montoursville, the Presbyterians 
were given the right of regular worship. 

In 1883 they built for themselves a church and withdrew to 
enjoy the blessings of their own church home, thereby severing 
their relations with the Lutherans. 

In 1897 the pipe organ was purchased and a year later in 1898 
electric lights were placed in the church. 

In 1 901 at the beginning of Rev. W. C. Dunlap's pastorate the 
union with Emanuel Church was severed and the new name 
"Bethany" was given to the Montoursville Church. The steam 
heating plant was installed when the church was remodeled in 
1901. 

In 191 1 the annex was built to accommodate the Sunday School 
which had outgrown its former quarters. We now have a Sun- 
day School fully equipped, graded, and doing efficient work, a 
great factor in our church. 

From the close of Rev. George Parson's pastorate in 1852 to 
the present time we have had twelve pastors : 

Rev. Philip Sheeder, from May, 1853. 
Rev. J. L. Smithdeal, from May, 1866, to February, 1868. 
Rev. J. G. Griffith, from March 1, 1868, to March 1, 1873. 
Rev. I. P. Nefr, from March 14, 1873, to March 14, 1880. 
Rev. A. N. Warner, from March 15, 1880, to June 15, 1882. 
Rev. I. P. Zimmerman, from April 1, 1883, to Sept. 1, 1887. 
Rev. J. R. Sample, from Sept. 1, 1887, to Aug. 2J, 1893. 
Rev. T. J. Yost, from Jan. 1, 1894, to May 1, 1895. 
Rev. W. L. Rutherford, from Sept. 16, 1895, to Dec. 1, 1900. 
Rev. W. C. Dunlap, from March 1, 1901, to July 1, 191 1. 
Rev. E. M. Gearhart, from Oct. 1, 191 1, to April 1, 1916. 
Rev. O. E. Sunday, from Sept. 1, 1916, to the present. 



Or THE EVAXGELTCAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 

ELYSBURG PASTORATE. 
By Rev. T. W. Shannon, D. D. 



189 



The boundaries of this pastorate have varied very much. 
Shamokin, Catawissa and Mt. Carmel have at times been part 
of it. In 1876 Jacob's, St. Peter's and St. John's were united 
and have composed the pastorate ever since. 

In its earliest years it was part of that large pastorate which 
included nearly all of the congregations on the territory now 
covered by Synod. 

Jacob's Church. 

Jacob's is the oldest church in the pastorate, and one of the 
oldest in the Synod. The first ministers mentioned are Revs. 
Lehman, Getz, Stock, and Ulrick. all serving the church prior to 




Jacob's Church. Elysburg Charge 

1812. The earliest date in the cemetery adjoining the church 
is 1793. 

The first building, a school house, was erected probably before 



IQO THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

1790. Mr. Stock, afterwards Rev. Carl Stock, is mentioned as 
the first teacher, possibly doing some work as pastor. 

Rev. Stock preached also at Catawissa, Sunbury, Milton, Foll- 
mer's and Muncy Creek ; whether at all of these places at the same 
time, as occasionally during our pastorate, we do not know. The 
Halle Reports at one place credit him to Sunbury, Catawissa, and 
Follmer's. 

Rev. J. P. Shindel came in 1812. He evidently very soon be- 
gan planning for a church building, as the cornerstone of the 
first church was laid on August 28, 18 14, and the church dedi- 
cated August 16, 18 1 6. 

Church and school house stood side by side until about 1895, 
when the school house was torn down. Three school houses 
had been erected on the same site, two by the church and one by 
the township. The cost of the church was $3,000.00, a large 
sum for that day and was in the usual architecture of the early 
German churches. Rev. Shindel continued as pastor until a few 
years before his death. 

Rev. P. Willard from Danville served the church for a few 
years, beginning with 1850, and Rev. C. J. Ehrhart from Sha- 
unokin between the years 1853 and 1857. R- ev - J- F. Wampole 
was called in 1858 and served until 1868, preaching also during 
part of the time at Shamokin and Catawissa. During his first 
year St. John's church was built. 

Rev. J. A. Adams was called to the pastorate in 1868, leaving 
in 1883. For several years he lived at, and preached in, Mt. 
Carmel. 

In 1870 the old church was replaced by the present substantial 
two-story building, at a cost of about $6,000.00. 

He was succeeded by Rev. J. K. Bricker, who remained three 
years. 

In October, 1887, the present pastor, Rev. J. W. Shannon, 
D. D., was called. 

In 1893 ^e parsonage was built at a cost of about $1,500.00 
in. money, the members doing much of the work and all of the 
hauling without pay. 

Jacob's Church is locally called "Reed's" Church because of 
the prominence of that family in the church from its organization. 

Jacob Reed settled near the church in 1774; his successors 
giving his name "Jacob" to the church. 



OF THE EVAXGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



191 



St. Peter's. 

St Peter's, like Jacob's, is a Union Church — Lutheran and 
.Reformed. The first church was built in the second decade of 
the last century ; a building which at some time in its early his- 
tory was painted blue, and the "Blue" church it has been ever 
since. 

St. Peter's and Jacob's have always been together and have 
"been served by the same pastors. 




bt. 



Peter"s Church. Elysburg Charge 



The present building was erected in 1863, while Rev. YVam- 
pole was pastor and is a substantial brick building. 

Three families, the Leisenring, Adams, and Dimmick families — 
have been prominent in the church for many years. 

St. John's. 

This church was built by some members of Jacob's Church, 
who found it burdensome to travel the long distance to the 
mother church. It was a plain brick building: dedicated Janu- 
ary 24. 1S58. and cost, when completed. $800.00. Their thrift 
and foresight is seen in the fact that the congregation was not 
organized until February 14. 1858. nearly a month after the 
church was dedicated. 

Twenty-eight names appear on the list of charter members. 
20 of whom bore the name Vought. The family has always 
been prominent in the church. For 50 years the first church 



192 



THE SUSQUEHANNA 



served the congregation, then was torn clown to give place to 
the present beautiful, substantial brick building. 

Three months after the dedication every cent of indebtedness 
incurred was paid. This means much when it is known that the 
membership was but 65, and the cost of the church $7,000.00. 





'*M 












.. 


: ) ' 








^rgjLr 




I \ 


- 








m 


** : 




a 





St. John's Church, Elysburg Charge 

The congregation for a few years was a part of the Catawissa 
pastorate, re-uniting with Jacob's and St. Peter's in 1876, since 
which time the three have composed the Elysburg pastorate. 



ST. JOHN'S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 
NORTHUMBERLAND, PA. 

On August 27th, 1772, Mr. John Lowden and Mr. William 
Patterson donated the lot upon which St. John's Church stands 
for the purpose of a Union Church building. Northumberland 
was then a small borough and nothing was done apparently until 
1817 when a two-story brick building was erected by a small 
body of Lutherans, Episcopalians and Reformed people. Mr. 
John Richstine was architect and foreman of the work. The 
cornerstone was laid on July 6, 181 7, and on August 30, 18 18, 
the building was dedicated. At the dedicatory services the Rev. 
J. P. Shindle, pastor of Zion Church, at Sunbury, represented 
the Lutheran Church. Rev. Hendel, of Lebanon, represented the 
Reformed Church, and Rev. Robt. F. AY. Smith the Presbvterian. 



of the evangelical Lutheran church 193, 

Rev. Shindel was called as the first Lutheran pastor. He ac- 
cepted the call and served it with Zion church at Sunbury. Rev.. 
?\lartin Bruner was called by the Reformed people. 

Rev. Shindel continued as pastor until 1823, at which time the 
church became financially embarrassed because of a debt of three 
hundred eighty-five dollars and six cents still due the contractor. 
.Appeals were made for funds but of no avail. Suit was brought 
by the contractor and on June 16, 1823, at sheriff's sale, the 
property was bought by Mr. Hugh Bellas, who deeded it to the 
Lutheran, Reformed, Episcopal and Unitarian congregations. 

In 1834 the church property became the property of the Lu- 
theran and Reformed Churches alone. They jointl) r called the 
Rev. E. Meyer, a Reformed minister of Danville, who served 
both until in 1839. Upon his resignation both congregations 
appear to have disbanded. 

During the year 1847 ^ le Rev. R. Weiser re-organized the 
Lutheran people with the following officers : John Leisenring 
and Henry Wenck, trustees ; John Diehl and Henry Wenck, 
elders ; and Samuel Willard and Michael Barnhart, deacons. 
Rev. Weiser preached occasionally but no regular services were 
held until 1848 when Rev. M. J. Alleman took charge and re- 
mained until 1850. He continued as a supply, however, until 
July, 1852. 

At this point the records are not clear, but in 1858 the Rev. 
Peter Born, D. D., pastor of Zion Church at Sunbury, became 
pastor. From this time until 1871, St. John's Church formed 
a part of the Sunbury charge. It was during the pastorate of 
Dr. Born that the remnant of the Reformed congregation united 
with the Lutheran congregation. Serving the Sunbury Charge 
following Dr. Born were the following: Revs. P. Rizer, M. 
Rhodes, D. D. ? and G. W. Hemperley. After 1871 St. John's 
congregation became a separate charge and was served as fol- 
lows: 

Rev. E. E. Berry, 1871, to April, 1876. 

Rev. E. B. Killinger, Sept., 1876, to August, 1884. 

Rev. J. A. Koser, Jan., 1885, to July, 1888. 

Rev. A. N. Warner, D. D., Dec, 1888, to June, 1898. 

Rev. C. R. Botsford, July, 1898, to Aug., 1906. 

Rev. H. C. Michael, Oct., 1906, to July, 1916. 

Rev. I. S. Sassaman, Nov., 1916, to the present time. 

Luth. Synod— 13 



194 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

The present church edifice, a substantial brick structure, was 
erected during the pastorate of the Rev. E. B. Killinger, costing 
eleven thousand dollars. The cornerstone was laid on June 2, 
1878. with appropriate services. Rev. Dr. S. Domer preached 
the sermon. Other ministers present were: Reverends G. Par- 
son, E. H. Lei sen ring, J. E. Honeycutt, the resident pastors of 
Sunbury, and Rev. W. H. Gotwald, then president of our Synod. 

On Feb. 16, 1879. the church was dedicated to the worship of 
the Triune God. Rev. J. W. Goodlin preached the sermon and 
Rev. Menges had charge of the service of offerings. Others 
present were : Reverends Parsons, Shindel, Hooper, Criley, Man- 
hart, Heilman, from out of town, and Rev. Fulk of the local 
Presbyterian Church ; Rev. Drum, of the M. E., and Rev. Henshy, 
of the Baptist. 

When Rev. Koser became the pastor in 1885 the church was 
still under a heavy indebtedness. With a congregation some- 
what discouraged because of several reverses a heroic effort was 
launched to raise a sufficient amount to satisfy the mortgage hold- 
er. The people responded liberally and the debt was reduced by 
more than two thousand dollars. This was the beginning of a new 
and better life for St. John's. The people felt encouraged and had 
a mind to work. The work went on and during the ten years' 
pastorate of the late Dr. Warner when the entire indebtedness 
was met. During these years of financial progress of the church 
she also made great strides in the increase of membership and 
benevolence. 

On June 17, 1901, ground was broken for a new Sunday School 
room to accommodate the growing work of the church. The 
dedicatory services were held on June 15, 1902. Rev. J. H. 
Weber, D. D., preached and had charge of the service of offerings. 
The cost of the addition to the church, together with a new steam 
heat plant, was $7,000.00. The first Sunday School service was 
held in the new quarters on March 2nd, 1902, with an attendance 
of two hundred and fifty present. From the Lutheran Observer 
of Tune 20, 1902, over the name of Dr. Weber we quote the fol- 
lowing : "The history of this congregation for the past twelve 
years is worthy of note. They have paid a debt of $5,000.00. 
organized two country congregations from their number, erected 
and paid for a church for each of these congregations, purchased 
and paid for their parsonage and now dedicated this with only a 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAX CHURCH 195 

few thousand dollars unpaid, but provided for. Surely, under 
God, they have done great things, whereof we are glad." 

Early in 1907 the auditorium was frescoed and the woodwork 
retouched, new chandeliers, carpet, book racks, and other improve- 
ments were made at a cost of Si.ico.oo. 

On May 22 a beautiful Moller pipe organ, costing $3, 485. was 
dedicated. 

During the year 1913 the Sunday School, having outgrown its 
home, an addition was added that increased the seating capacity 
from 250 to 750. The room was made two story and extended 
from 50x60 to 60x75. Appropriate services of dedication were 
held on Xovember 2nd, 19 13. 

The present enrollment of the Sunday School is 764. The 
congregation numbers 430 communicant members and 584 con- 
firmed members. 

The heads of the church organization at present are : Sunday 
School superintendent. Mr. Charles Steele ; Women's Home and 
Foreign Missionary Society. Miss Claire Schalvin ; Ladies* Aid 
Societv. Mrs. Tillie Brown ; Luther League. Mr. Daniel Diehl. 



GRACE LUTHERAX CHURCH. CAMERON, PA. 

XORT H U M T.ERLA ND C H ARGE . 

This congregation was organized on Nov. 13, 1896, by the Rev. 
A. X. Warner, then pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church of 
Xorthumberland, Pa. Officers were at once elected and appli- 
cation made for incorporation and a charter. The officers were : 
Elders, A. P. Mertz and Wm. Yastine : deacons, John D. Klase 
and Joseph Diehl ; trustees, L. P. Park and W. H. Diehl. 

Mr. Wm. Vastine donated the church site. The following were 
the building committee: L. H. Park. Joseph Diehl. Sr.. John D. 
Klase. 

The majority of the charter members of the church were for- 
merly members of St. John's Church in Northumberland. The 
membership was small but energetic and enthusiastic. The build- 
ing was dedicated on June 6, 1897. 

Appropriate services attended the dedication. The Rev. J. H. 
T\*eber, D. D.. of Sunbury. and president of the Synod, preached 



196 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



at the morning service. Five hundred and twenty-five dollars 
were needed to meet the entire indebtedness, and $537 were se- 
cured at the morning service. At the evening service enough cash 
was raised to purchase an organ. Others present who delivered 
addresses were: the pastor, Rev. A. N. Warner and Rev. J. A. 
Demoyer, and M. L. Shindel, D. D. 

Rev. C. R. Botsford became pastor in July, 1898, and served 




Grace Church, Northumberland Charge 



until he resigned the pastorate to accept a call to Berwick on 
Aug. 1, 1906. 

Rev. H. C. Michael became the pastor of the Northumberland 
Charge in October, 1906, but served as the active pastor only for 
about one year. During the remaining years of his pastorate 
in Northumberland this church was served by associate pastors 
and substitutes. Those who served as associate pastors were 
Rev. H. D. Hoover and Rev. Prof. Follmer of Susquehanna Uni- 
versity, and during the years 191 1 to 1916 the pulpit was sup- 
plied by students from Susquehanna University. 

The present pastor is Rev. I. S. Sassaman, and the membership 
numbers 37. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN' CHURCH 197 

TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 
POINT TOWNSHIP. 

Northumberland Charge. 



A meeting of the Lutheran people of Tuckahoe was held at 
No. 2 schoolhouse on November 27, 1896. Nearly all the people 
present were members of St. John's. A committee composed of 
Messrs. H. F. Geise, J. F. Dagle, Albert Hackenberg, and Peter 




St. John's Church, Northumberland 

Clemens were selected to recommend a site for a church building 
near to No. 2 school house. 

At a similar meeting held on Dec. n, 1896, with Rev. A. N. 
Warner presiding, the congregation was organized with the fol- 
lowing officers : Elders, Albert Hackenberg and J. F. Dagle ; 
deacons, A. S. Hoffman and J, R. Fulton ; and trustees, H. F. 
Geise and Peter Clemens. 

The committee for a church site reported that Air. B. I. Bidels- 
pach would donate the ground. The site was at once agreed 
upon and the following building committee appointed : Messrs. 
Albert Hackenberg, Peter Clemens, J. F. Dagle, H. F. Geise. 



I9o THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

The church, 24x36, with a Sunday School room of 16x20, 
separated from the main room with sliding doors, w T as dedicated 
for service on July 1, 1897. The choir of St. John's rendered 
the music for the occasion. Rev. P. Born, D. D., offered prayer, 
and Rev. H. H. Weber, of York, preached the sermon and had 
charge of the service of offerings. The church cost $1,380.00. 
But $535 was needed on the day of dedication. This amount 
was easily raised. 

Trinity, with Grace Church built at the same time, were com- 
bined with St. John's to form what still remains the Northum- 
berland Charge. Dr. Warner was assisted in the work of the 
charge by Rev. C. R. Botsford who was then a student at Sus- 
quehanna University. When Rev. Warner resigned, Rev. Bots- 
ford assumed all the duties of the whole pastorate from July, 
1898, to Aug., 1906. 

In October, 1906, Rev. H. C. Michael became pastor of the 
charge, but did not regularly preach here except during" the first 
year. In 1907 because of the strain of constantly growing work, 
Rev. H. D. Hoover was elected associate pastor and regularly 
preached here and at Grace until June of 1909. Dr. Follmer 
succeeded him and served both churches for about a year and 
a-half. From that time until Nov. of 19 16 the theological stu- 
dents of Susquehanna University supplied under the oversight 
of Rev. Michael. 

November 1st, 191 6, Rev. I. S. Sassaman became pastor of 
the charge and has been doing the preaching and pastoral work 
of the whole charge. The present membership is 42. 



EMANUEL CHARGE. 
Emanuixs 

The history of Emanuel's is similar to that of other churches 
and their communities. Previous to the year 1878 the folks 
had been accustomed to having short notice of preaching services 
in the old Union School House. Different men of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church had been coming there and preaching, but for 
some reason the interest failed and so did the attendance and 
they transferred the place of worship to Fairview School House 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



199 



which is located about two miles farther east. Then it was in 
1878 that some of the older members of the community decided 
that because their parents and forefathers had belonged to the 
Lutheran Church in Germany they would seek the services of a 
Lutheran minister. A committee was appointed to wait upon 
Rev. I. P. Neff, then serving on the Montoursville charge. They 
secured his services and from 1878 to 1880 he preached to them 
in the school house. Shortly after he began to preach the con- 
gregation was organized and called Emanuel's because Bro. 




Immarmel's Church, near Williamsport 

Emanuel Pidcoe was one of the foremost leaders in the work of 
organization. The list of charter members contains the names 
of Pidcoe, King, Follmer, Hagerman, AYheeland, Hartman, 
Strieby. After Dr. Neff left they secured the services of the Rev. 
A. N. Warner and were also united to the Montoursville charge. 
He served them but a very short time, but during his pastorate 
the membership increased and he was succeeded by the Rev. I. P. 
Zimmerman in 1882. After laboring for a few years the church 
membership had increased and at a council meeting held on 
March 25, 1886, they unanimously agreed to build a church. 



200 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Accordingly the plans were laid and everybody was set to work 
to help realize their fondest hopes and prayers. May 30, 1886, 
saw the cornerstone laid and dedicated and in the same year ser- 
vices were held in the church. The congregation now had a per- 
manent place in which they could worship God as their fore- 
fathers had. Two years after the completion of the church or 
in 1888 Rev. Zimmerman had accepted a call to another charge 
and Rev. J. R. Sample came on the charge. He served his peo- 
ple faithfully for six years, during which time many of the 
younger people were added to the church. He was succeeded in 
1894 by Rev. Yost, who served only about a year and was in turn 
succeeded by Rev. W. L. Rutherford, who served about four 
years. 

During all these years Emanuel's remained with Montoursville 
charge but in February 22, 1903, arrangements were made to 
join Trinity at Huntersville, and St. James, at Halls, thus form- 
ing a separate charge, with the minister residing at Montours- 
ville. For a while the different churches in the charge had sup- 
plies. About 1901 Rev. W. H. Derr, who was then a student in 
Susquehanna Theological Seminary, began to supply and did so 
until he became their regular pastor and served in that capacity 
until 1906. After he left the charge had again to resort to se- 
curing supplies. Because of the absence of a resident minister 
some of the younger folks failed to receive Christian instruction 
in Catechism, etc., and so went to other churches. It was not 
until 191 1 that they again secured the services of a regular min- 
ister in the person of Rev. J. B. Guiney, who served for four 
years. The charge is at present supplied by a student from Sus- 
quehanna Theological Seminary. 

There are enough people living within a radius of three miles 
to place the church membership back to its original standing. 
The church is again making efforts to regain some of its lost 
members and with the help of Almighty God will within a few 
years be at work as strong as ever. 

Trinity. 

"What is known as the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church is 
situated about one mile from the former Post Office of Hunters- 
ville, in Mill Creek Township, in Lycoming County. In the year 
1846 Rev. Geo. Schultz was then serving the Muney Creek 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 201 

charge, these people decided to build themselves a church and 
Bro. Samuel Gortner came forward with an offer of a lot on his 
farm. The committee was appointed and resolutions were drawn 
up. They started to secure funds and to build the church, and 
May 17, 1846, saw the cornerstone dedicated. In it were the 
resolutions of the committee, the Lutheran and Heidelberg Cate- 
chisms. The church was built by the members of the Lutheran 
and German Reformed Church. The church was built on the 
right hand side of the road, or where the cemetery now is lo- 
cated. The structure was made of logs and hence the church 
received the name of the "Old Log Church." This building 
served its purpose for twenty-four years and at a council meet- 
ing held Dec. 13, 1869, they decided that it was too uncomfortable 
for use and accordingly they decided to build a new church. A 
subscription committee was appointed consisting of Rev. LI. 
Myers, Bros. Geo. Jones and David Gortner. In a few weeks 
they had about $1,000 subscribed and at the next council meeting 
they appointed the building committee consisting of Bros. Joseph 
Rynearson, David Gortner and H. Ellis Nevel. 

The church they now intended to build was to be bigger and 
better so they went around and inspected churches and presently 
drew up plans that materialized in the present church. They 
decided to build across the road. The present location is better 
adapted for a church than the old one was. The church was 
completed in the year 1870 and dedicated to God's services and 
has been in use ever since by the congregation. 

From the earliest history of the church up to the year 1903 
the church had been connected with the Muncy Creek charge, 
and consequently they had men that became leaders of the Lu- 
theran Church. The list of men that served the church is in- 
complete but such men as these served at some time or another: 
Rev. Geo. Schultz, Rev. P. Sheeder, Rev. Barnets, Rev. Geo. 
Parsons, Rev. J. L. Smithdeal, Rev. Uriah Myers, Rev. J. M. 
Reimensnyder, and Rev. Geo. Eicholtz. 

From the year 1903 up to the present time the church has been 
connected with the Emanuel charge ; this charge having its own 
minister. 

St. James. 

In about the year 1842, in the old Smoke Hill School House, 
about a mile north of where the present church now stands, the 



202 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

present congregation was organized. For about twenty-five years 
the congregation worshiped in this school house and were sup- 
plied by such men as they could get to preach. After the com- 
munity grew larger they decided to build a church at a suitable 
point, where folks could come from all around. Michael Keebler 
and his wife, then being some of the oldest members of the com- 
munity, gave them a lot and burying ground for the sum of 
$50.00. The people worshiping in the school house were Lu- 
therans and German Reformed, as one found in quite a few places 
at that time. From this group they appointed Jacob Snyder, 
Jacob Drick, and Jacob Houser to be the building committee and 
see to the securing of funds either in lumber, work, or money and 
also to the erection of the building in which they were nobly 
assisted by all the members of the congregation and the year of 
1867 saw the building completed. 

In the same year that the congregation moved into their new 
building one of the largest classes in the history of the church 
was confirmed. The class contained 29 members, some of whom 
are still worshiping in the same church. The records show 
large classes were confirmed each spring and many other congre- 
gations now have in their membership men and women who re- 
ceived their first religious instructions under the able ministers 
who served those people. 

When the congregation was organized it joined the Pennsylva- 
nia Synod and remained with them until Oct. 7, 1888, when at a 
congregational meeting they decided to join the Susquehanna 
Synod of the General Synod, Rev. J. R. Sample being the pastor 
at. the time. 

The church has been a center for all good activities in that 
community ever since it was built. The district is an agricultural 
one and hence the members have great distances to drive, but 
nevertheless they come out for Sunday School and the preaching 
services. 

The church was supplied for years by men from the Montours- 
ville charge until it united with Emanuel's and Trinity at Hun- 
tersville and since then the charge has had its own regular min- 
ister. 

After the church was built they decided to name it St. Jacob's 
as there were three Jacobs on the building committee, but they 



Or THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 203 

were told that there was no St. Jacob in Bible "times, and the 
name was then changed to St. James. 

The growth of the church has been regular, and many are the 
hearts that have there found peace under the leadership of such 
ministers as Rev. Shultz, Rev. Jacob Albert, Early, Rickert. Rev. 
S. S. Henry, Rev. I. P. Zimmerman, Rev. J. R. Sample. Rev. 
I. B. Crist, Rev. W. L. Rutherford, Rev. W. H. Derr, Rev. J. B. 
Guiney. 

The Sunday School has been a large factor in the- training of 
the future church members and to-day there is a large class of 
young folks that may be gathered into the church and we proph- 
esy for St. James a continued enlargement and much glory for 
our Master. 



TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH, HUGHES Y1LLE PA. 

In a brief history of this church, because of its close connec- 
tion with the Emmanuel Lutheran Church, the mother of all Lu- 
theran Churches located in this section of the West Branch 'Val- 
ley, it may not be out of place to give a short sketch of the early 
Christian worship of the pioneers of this valley. 

Some time after the Revolution, in the early eighties, before 
there was any church organization, there appeared among the 
early pioneers an itinerant preacher by the name of Lehman, 
who conducted periodical services for a number of years, but be- 
cause of the vast territory over which he traveled and the meagre 
facilities for getting around, these appointments were limited tc 
once in two or three months. That the services were appreciated 
by these early settlers is evident by the fact that they would 
gather together from a distance of fifteen to twenty miles. In 
many respects these gatherings were unique. On the appointed 
day, early in the morning, these widely separated neighbors would 
come together in all manner of conveyances, some on horseback, 
others in large farm wagons drawn by horses or oNen. All the 
male contingent would come with their trusty rifles in hand pre- 
pared for any emergency that might arise from attack by ma- 
rauding band of Indians who still infested this valley. Another 
feature of these services was that instead of being one hour or 



204 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYXOD 



one hour and a-half in length as the present day services are. 
they were promptly called at nine o'clock and continued until 
twelve o'clock, when a recess of one hour was given for lunch 
and visiting: promptly at one o'clock they were again called to- 
gether and the services continued for another three hours, when 
the congregation was dismissed. 

AYe have no authentic information that these meetings, were 
conducted under the auspices of any organization, although Mr. 




Trinity Church, Hughesville 



Lehman was a Lutheran minister and the congregation was ulti- 
mately organized into a Lutheran Church in 1791. The meet- 
ings were first held in the groves and if the weather was inclement 
then they were held in the homes of some of the pioneers or in 
the barns. 

The organization in this year, 1791, erected a house of wor- 
ship on or near the Muncy Creek, in what is now known as 
Muncy Creek Township, Lycoming County, about mid-way be- 
tween Muncy and Hughesville. The church was dedicated under 
the name of Emmanuel Lutheran Church. This Church enjoys 
the distinction of beine the first church building: within the 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 205 

bounds of what is now Lycoming County and probably within 
the bounds of the territory of Susquehanna Synod. 

In this first Church of the West Branch Valley the fathers and 
mothers and their families worshiped for nearly sixty years. 
About this time Hughesville had grown to be a village of no 
mean importance and the surrounding country had become more 
thickly settled and the good people of this section concluded 
that for the best interests of themselves and the Church at large 
the time had arrived for them to sever their connection with the 
old mother Church, Emmanuel, and form a new organization 
in Hughesville. In the fall of eighteen hundred and lift} a 
meeting was called of the mtersted parties and at this meeting 
a resolution was offered by John Hill that a new organization be 
formed in Hughesville. The resolution being carried they pro- 
ceeded to organize by adopting a constitution and by-laws, the 
election of a Pastor and officers. They called the Rev. George 
Parsons, who had for a number of years prior to this organization 
been Pastor of the Muncy Creek charge, and elected as Elders, 
Frederick Steck and Henry Ulch and as Deacons John Hill and 
John Poust. The organization was effected under the name and 
title of The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hughesville, Pa. 
We find from the records that the first communion service was 
participated in by one hundred and twenty-five communicants. 

We have no definite record as to when the Hughesville Church 
was built, but presumably in eighteen hundrd and fifty-one. This 
building was a plain brick structure with a seating capacity of 
about three hundred, located on the main street near the center 
of the town. The building still stands and is at present used for 
store rooms. Here the congregation quietly and peacefully wor- 
shiped until eighteen hundrd and eighty-two when the building 
of a new building was agitated by the Pastor, Rev. W. S. Freas. 
Nothing definitely was done however, as the Pastor soon resigned 
to accept a call to the First Church, of Carlisle, Pa. The Rev. 
John A. Wirt was called as Pastor and through his untiring efforts 
the membership decided to take up the project of the new 
Church. In eighteen hundrd and eighty-four, the location being 
decided upon, a Soliciting Committee was appointed, consisting 
of Rev. Wirt, A. C. Henry and W. C. Frontz. A Building Com- 
mittee was also appointed consisting of Dr. George Hill, Dr. J. K. 
Rishel, William Frontz, George P. Frontz and William Barch. 



2.Q>6 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Building operations were begun at once and in August, il 
the corner-stone was laid with addresses by the Revs. E. H. Leis- 
enring and J. M. Steck. The Church was completed the fol- 
lowing year and dedicated in September 13, 1885, the dedicatory 
sermon being preached by Rev. Frederick Conrad, D. D., and 
the act of dedication performed by the Pastor, Rev. J. A. Wirt. 
A notable feature of the service was the presence of all the 
Pastors who had served the congregation up to this time. After 
the completion of the Church, a charter was applied for and 
granted and the corporate name became Trinity Lutheran Church, 
of Hughesville, Pa. The cost of the building as originally con- 
structed was $22,000. In 1894 owing to the rapid growth of 
the Sunday School it became necessary to enlarge the chapel, 
which was done at an additional cost of $6,000. 

Under the ministrations of the present Pastor, Rev. Rene H. 
Williams, the Church structure has been materially changed and 
improved. "Narber Hall," the social room of the Church, was 
built in memory of Mrs. Hannah Narber; a gallery was built 
in the chapel for the accommodation of the Men's Bible class. 
The interior of the auditorium and the chapel were refrescoed, 
and the following memorials were placed in the auditorium : 
Brass pupit, in memory of De Witt Bodine ; brass lectern, a gift 
of one of the families of the Church; an altar, in memory of 
John Harvey Fague ; a cross, in memory of Mrs. Julia Steck 
Hess, and a pipe organ, the gift of Senator Charles Sones, in 
memory of his mother Mrs. Catherine Sones. The exterior of 
the building was covered with stucco and cement side-walks laid 
around the Church. The probable cost of all these improve- 
ments was about $9,000. The most gratifying feature to the con- 
gregation must be that after an expenditure of about $37,000 no 
appreciable debt was left to the congregation on the completion 
of the building and improvements thereon. 

Trinity enjoys the proud distinction of having sent more young 
men into the ministry of the Church than any other congregation 
within the bounds of the Susquehanna Synod, the list of our 
ministerial sons follows : Jacob Steck, Daniel Steck, Charles 
Steck, John Steck, William Steck, Reuben Hill, Jonathan Dimm, 
C. W. Sanders, E. E. Baker, Charles Derr, A. E. Renn, Chalmers 
Frontz, Thomas Taggart, William Price, Henry Bower and A. E. 
Chamberlain. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 20? 

The congregation from its first organization to the present 
has been served by the following pastors : 

Rev. George Parsons, D. D 1S50-1866 

Rev. E. A. Sharretts, D. D., 1866-1869 

Rev. A. H. Auche, 1 869-1872 

Rev. M. L. Heisler, 1872-1878 

Rev. W. S. Freas,, D. D., 1880-1882 

Rev. J. A. Wirt, D. D 1883-1895 

Rev. C. E. Walter, D. D 1895-1898 

Rev. J. H. Barb, D. D 1898-1912 

Rev. Rene H. Williams 1912- 

A pleasing coincidence is that the present pastor is the grand- 
son of the Rev. John T. Williams who was pastor of Emmanuel 
from 1838 to 1845. There are in the membership of Trinity 
those who were members of the Emmanuel congregation under 
Mr. Williams' pastorate and others who were confirmed and 
married by him. 

With all of the above-named pastors the writer enjoyed close 
and intimate acquaintance and can truthfully say from personal 
knowledge that Trinity is to be congratulated on having selected 
without an exception pastors who in qualifications were above 
the average. 

While Trinity has had no extraordinary accessions to its mem- 
bership, its growth has been steady and healthy. Starting with 
one hundred and twenty-five it has grown to over five hundred 
members. It occupies a place of influence and position in the 
town and community that are exceedingly gratifying. 

Gi-orce W. Metzcer, M. D. 



HISTORY OF FOLLMER LUTHERAN CHURCH. 

The Follmer Lutheran congregation was one of the first or- 
ganized in the territory of the Susquehanna Synod. Michael 
Follmer, the father of the church, granted land for the site of a 
church building and a schoolhouse nearby. The congregation had 
been organized and served ; but had no particular place of worship. 



208 



TH1; SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



The cost of erecting a church building on the site donated was 
met by those early pioneers with liberal contributions. The house 
was of newly-hewn logs. The inside walls appeared as the outside ; 
but the members were satisfied. They did their best. The pul- 
pit was of the then popular wine-glass shape with ascending stair- 
way at one side. The altar, a table of roughly-wrought wood, 
stood within a small enclosure. Benches served as pews. The 
happy congregation dedicated their church about 1795. The 
building was primarily intended for German Lutheran services; 




Follmer Lutheran Church, Follmer Charge. 



but by the constitution ministers of other denominations were al- 
lowed to hold services. The people, too, were not all Lutheran, 
but they were one in spirit; and the congregation continually 
thrived. Michael Follmer, the patriarch of the congregation, died 
before the edifice was built, but his work was done. His de- 
scendants have ever been loyal to the old church. 

The material of the first congregation came from all of north- 
ern Northumberland County and a large part of Montour County.. 
The present Lutheran congregations at Danville, Milton, Wat- 
sontown, Washingtonville, Pottsgrove, Turbotville, McEwins- 
ville, and Oak Grove were all fostered by this pioneer church. 
Its minister served those who could attend service at the mother 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 209 

church, and also those who lived far away, but who were eager 
to worship God. 

In 183 1, the old church was remodeled. Outside it was 
weather-boarded and painted. Inside a gallery was built around 
three sides — for the increasing congregation — and the walls were 
prepared for plastering. Other improvements to the building and 
cemetery increased the cost to over $600. This was cheerfully 
given and the people were rightly pleased with their building. 
The old pulpit remained until 1852, when other improvements 
were made. 

In 1859, with one dissenting vote, it was decided to erect a new 
church. May 15, 1859, Rev. C. C. Culler preached the last ser- 
mon in the old church. The cornerstone of the present church 
was laid July 2, 1859, the services being in English and German. 
It was dedicated on Jan. 22, i860. The church is 65x45, with a 
basement for the Sunday School, its location commanding and 
the surroundings beautiful. Walls and grounds bespeak the hard- 
ships and victories of pioneers. Its members are justly proud of 
their grand historic church. 

The records of early pastors are meagre. Rev. H. J. Shellhart, 
who was the first pastor at the Dreisbaeh Union Church, preached 
to Lutherans and Reformed in Follmer's vicinity, before the first 
church was built. Rev. Geistweit served both congregations and 
was at the dedication of Follmer Church. Revs. Stock and 
Kreamer followed. They lived in Sunbury and served a wide 
circuit. In Rev. Kreamer's time there were sixty-two communi- 
cants. Rev. Frederick Plitt became pastor about 1806, preaching 
at Follmer's every four weeks. Revs. Engle, Repass and Waage 
followed. Revs. Repass and Waage served Lutherans from Sun- 
bury to Williamsport. Rev. William Garman, 1 829-1 831, was 
the last to preach only in German. Rev. Charles Miller followed, 
preaching the first English sermon. He resigned in 1835. Rev. 
C. F. S.taver, beginning in 1836, was the pastor to keep the rec- 
ords. In 1840 there were ninety-two members. Then followed: 

Rev. S. R. Boyer, 1&16-1851. Rev. Jesse Winecoff. 1853-1855. 

Rev. M. J. Alleman, 1851-1852. Rev. J. T. Williams, 1856-1858. 

Rev. C. C. Culler, of Milton, who became pastor in 1858, was 

Luth. Svnod — 14 



210 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

instrumental in bringing- about the erection of the present build- 
ing. His death in i860 was mourned by all. Next in order were: 

Rev. A. Babb, 1860-1862. Rev. E. J. Wolf, 1866-1868. 

Rev. A. R. Horn, 1863-1865. Rev. George Sill, 1869-1870. 

During Rev. U. Myer's ministry, the charge was divided. 
Turbo tville and McEwinsville constituted one charge ; Follmer 
and Center, now Pottsgrove, the other. 

Rev. J. B. Bergner, 1873-1876. Rev. Conrad Huber.. 1876-1882. 

While the latter was pastor, Oak Grove was added to the 
charge for a short time and the church at Pottsgrove was built. 
Rev. J. A. Adams was pastor when the parsonage at Pottsgrove 
was bought; and the church at Folkner was remodeled at a cost 
of about $1, 000.00. While Rev. G. E. Faber was pastor, 1889- 
1894, the Christian Endeavor Society was organized and the sex- 
ton's house and horse-sheds were built. When Rev. Faber re- 
signed, Rev. J. M. Steck became pastor. Early in his pastorate, 
the indebtedness was all paid when the centennial of the church 
was celebrated in 1895. Rev. Steck was the devoted and beloved 
pastor until 1904, when he retired from the active ministry. Rev. 
J. E. Zimmerman became pastor in 1905, and served until 1913. 
Rev. W. J. Wagner is the present pastor. 

Follmer has always been well-blessed with loyal families. The 
Follmers, Hoffas, Hoys, Syphers, Gangers, Lahrs, Artma'ns, 
and others, have always been prominently connected with the 
affairs of this church ; and they are represented yet by a majority 
of the members. To these and many others, who were one with 
them in the worship of God, and to those worthy servants of the 
Master, who ministered unto them, belong the praise of such a 
history. 



HISTORY OF POTTSGROVE LUTHERAN CHURCH. 

About the year 1871, when Rev. Myers was pastor of the 
Paradise charge, a division of the charge was effected. Turbot- 
ville and McEwinsville constituted one charge ; Paradise, Foll- 
mer, and Center, the other. For some reason the Paradise con- 
gregation failed to enter into the new arrangement ; and, after a 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



211 



few years during which it was supplied, the congregation ceased 
to have service. Thus Follmer and Center made up the Follmer 
charge. 

During a period extending from April, 1872, until July, 1873, 
the Follmer charge was without a regular pastor. Rev. S. Curtis 
supplied for sometime, as did also Rev. Coats and Rev. J. M. 
Reimensnyder, D. D. The first pastor called to the new Follmer 
charge was Rev. J. B. Bergner. He began his labors July, 1873, 
and continued as pastor until July, 1876. Rev. Conrad Huber 




Lutheran Church, Pottsgrove, Pa., Follmer Charge. 



was Rev. Bergner's successor, serving the charge from October 
15. 1876, until July 30. 1882. While he was pastor, Oak Grove 
congregation was added to the charge. Also the church at Center 
was abandoned and the seat of the congregation was moved to 
Pottsgrove. The church building at Pottsgrove was erected in 
1881. The AYomen's Home and Foreign Missionary Society was 
organized, and the congregation became active in the benevolent 
work of the Susquehanna Synod. 

Rev. Huber's successor was Rev. J. A. Adams. He began his 
work April 1, 1883, and his resignation took effect April, 1888. 
Rev. G. E. Faber followed Rev. Adams, commencing his labors 
March 1, 1889. He served until April 8, i8cl{. During this time 
the Pottsgrove church was remodeled at a cost of S677. A Young 



212 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

People's Society of Christian Endeavor was organized which 
numbered, when he left, fifty members. The next pastor was 
Rev. J. M. Steck, who began his work in the charge July i, 1894, 
and continued its pastor for a period of over ten years. During 
all this time he served the people faithfully and acceptably. His 
resignation, which was tendered on account of ill health, took 
effect Oct. 1, 1904. After his resignation, he lived in his own 
home, close by the church, where he died July 10, 1907. 

Rev. J. Ernest Zimmerman became pastor of the charge and 
was installed pastor on Aug. 20, 1905, in the Follmer church. 
While he was pastor, the Pottsgrove church was repaired and re- 
carpeted at a cost of $400. On June 1, 1913, Rev. W. J. Wagner 
was installed in the Pottsgrove church ; he is the present pastor. 
Repairs have been made on the church-sheds and parsonage at a 
cost of $500. 

It may truthfully be said that the Pottsgrove church is one of 
the strongest and most active rural churches in the Susquehanna 
Synod. 



TRINITY CHURCH, HAZLETON, PA. 
Rev. John Wagner, D. D., Pastor. 

Steps preliminary to the organization of Trinity Lutheran 
Church at Hazleton were taken in the summer of 1873. July 1st 
of that year the present pastor, then a young student from the 
Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, not yet ordained to the 
Gospel ministry, first came upon the field. He came in response 
to a call from a few people who, true to the faith of their fathers, 
longed for the privilege of worshiping God in a General Synod, 
English Lutheran Church. He found a mere handful of people, 
without an organization, without a place of worship, with only 
a borrowed Bible to preach from. There was neither choir, or- 
ganist nor organ. Four months were spent in praying, preaching, 
planning. 

October 1st, 1873, on the third story of the "Sons of America" 
hall, a temporary organization was effected till a regular pastor 
could be secured. A month later he returned to Gettysburg to 
complete his studies in preparation for the ministry. Repeated 
efforts were made to secure a pastor, but all were unsuccessful. 



OF THE; EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 21$ 

In April, 1874, a call was extended to Rev. John Wagner. Af- 
ter prayerful deliberation it was accepted, and July 1st he took 
charge of the work. A thorough canvass of the town and vicinity 
discovered only fifteen persons willing to undertake the perma- 
nent organization of an English Lutheran Church, on the basis 
of the General Synod. It was a feeble beginning, — a day of 
small things. The little flock was poor in material resources. 
General Synod Lutheranism was unknown in all northeastern 
Pennsylvania. Few cared to aid the movement. Some opposed. 



Original Trinity Church, Hazleton 

The other Lutheran churches round about were hostile. The 
obstacles in the way of ultimate success looked well-nigh insur- 
mountable. Often did the hearts of the few members tremble 
like old Eli's by the wayside for the ark of the Lord. 

December 17, 1876, after two and a-half years of self-sacrificing 
efforts, the first little church was dedicated. The membership 
numbered only forty. The total cost of the property, including 
lot and furnishings was four thousand dollars, of which all but 
S700.00 was provided for on the day of dedication. 

Greatly encouraged the congregation worshiped regularly in 



214 TR E SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

the new church once a Sabbath with services alternating morning 
and evening for three and a-half years, when Trinity Lutheran 
Church severed its relations with the two country congregations, 
which had formed part of the Hazleton charge. Thereafter 
Divine worship was celebrated twice every Lord's day. At the 
first communion in the new church the membership was nearly 
doubled, twenty-nine being added April 8, 1877. Other large 
accessions followed from time to time. February 6, 1881, an 
effort was made to liquidate the remaining indebtedness, and 
proved successful. July 1st, 1883, the congregation became self- 
supporting, no further aid being asked from the Board of Home 
Missions. ■ The aid received from the Board in nine years 
amounted to $1,600.00, never more than $200.00 a year. In these 
same nine years the congregation paid back into the treasuries 
of the various benevolent Boards of the Church $916.79. In 
these nine years the membership increased from fifteen to one 
hundred and sixty-nine, after deducting all losses. In the forty- 
two years of its history Trinity Church has raised for missionary, 
educational and benevolent purposes a total of $32,913.17, and 
for local parish expenses a total of $189,154.51, or a grand total 
for all purposes of $222,067.58. The new church soon proved 
too small for the growing congregation, and ten years later an- 
other lot 100x190 feet was bought for $4,000.00 on which the 
second church, costing over $15,000.00 was erected, and which 
was dedicated June 3, 1888. In January, 1897, at a congrega- 
tional meeting the question of building another and larger church 
was considered, more room being needed for the growing congre- 
gation and Sunday School. Action was deferred from time to 
time. August 7, 1904, the cornerstone of the present large and 
substantial church, built of Port Deposit granite, was laid ; and 
on Palm Sunday, April 16, 1905, the third church was dedicated, 
the total cost of the same including furnishings and pipe organ, 
being in excess of $53,000.00, on which there is no debt. The 
confirmed membership is 880 and the baptized membership is 
1,290. The number of persons admitted into communicant mem- 
bership with Trinity Church in the forty-two years of its history 
has been 1,979. The number of infants baptized has been 1,251. 
The number of marriages solemnized by its pastor has been 437. 
The number of funerals 690. 

April 7, 1879, a Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary So- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



215 



ciety was organized which has prosecuted its specific work with 
great zeal and blessed results. May 17, 1883, a Mission Band 
was organized, which now enrolls nearly one hundred members. 
April 19, 1888, a Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor 
was formed, which was changed into a "Young Peoples Luther 
Alliance" November 2, 1890. The change proving unsatisfac- 
tory, in the course of a few years the Society of Christian En- 
deavor was reorganized ; and later the organization adopted the 




Present Trinity Church, Hazleton 



name of "Young People's Society," now a vigorous and flourish- 
ing organization. April 3, 1891, a society called "The Young 
People's Training Class" was formed, composed of former cate- 
chetical classes, its object being to develop the young people of 
the Church in the Divine life and enlist them actively in Chris- 
tian work. After accomplishing much good the society dis- 
banded. 

June, 1898, a company of the United Boys' Brigade of America 
was organized, its aim being to develop the young men physi- 
cally, morally and spiritually, the exercises of the weekly meet- 



.216 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

ings consisting of physical culture and Bible study. For a num- 
ber of years it was a useful and helpful auxiliary of the congre- 
gation, but interest finally waned, and the company disbanded. 

April 1 6, 1905, the Men's Brotherhood was formed, and which 
•still continues its activities with varying interest and more or less 
: success. 

One of the most helpful and efficient organizations of Trinity 
•Church has been the "Ladies' Aid Society." At the dedication 
•of the third church $3,600.00 was pledged by it and paid towards 
its erection. 

The Sunday School, organized August, 1874, with fifty mem 7 
bers, has been through the years since an agency for good whose 
beneficent work is beyond all computation. From it the pastoi? 
has gathered from year to year the members of his catchetical 
-classes and the candidates for confirmation. Eternity alone can 
disclose the blessed streams of influence that were there started. 
1 The membership of the school is 632, exclusive of cradle roll and 
Home Department. 

From Trinity Church have gone four young men who are now 
preaching "the glorious Gospel of the blessed God," viz: Revs. 
O. G. Klinger, M. E. McEinn, M. S. Kemp, Eitt. D, and C. S. 
Bottiger. Another young man, Paul S. Wagner is in the Theo- 
logical Seminary at Gettysburg, preparing for the work of tha 
Gospel ministry. 

July 1, 1890, with the sixteenth anniversary of the church, the 
present pastor was given a vacation of three months with a purse 
to defray the expenses of a trip to the Pacific Coast. With the 
celebration of the fortieth anniversary its first and only pastor 
was granted another three months' vacation with a generous 
purse to aid in defraying the expenses of a trip to the Holy Eand, 
which, after passage had been secured, had to be postponed be- 
cause of the European war. 

After forty-two years of an unbroken experience of God's 
; goodness and the mighty and marvelous manifestations of His 
presence and saving power, pastor and people join in gratefully 
raising their Ebenezer, "Hitherto hath the Lord helped us," and 
in the devout exclamation: "Behold what God hath wrought!" 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 217 

PIXE STREET, DANVILLE. 

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of North Danville, Penn- 
sylvania, commonly known as the Pine Street Lutheran Church, 
situated in the Third ward of the borough of Danville, was or- 
ganized January i, 1845. Served by the Rev. Elias Schwartz as 
pastor from Jan. 1, 1845, to March 1845. R- ev - Ruthrouff from 
March 1845 to Jan., 1846. Rev. M. J. Alleman from 1846 to 
1848. No pastor for two years, after which period the congre- 
gation was reorganized by Rev. P. Willard. Much dissatisfac- 
tion prevailed about that time on account of the selection of a lot 
of ground for building a church. The question of location was 
submitted to the congregation, when a majority decided to buy 
and build on the present site. The minority refused to submit, 
and withdrew and organized a congregation in the Second ward 
of Danville, and made application to the Pennsylvania Synod 
and were admitted. The congregation is now known by "Trinity 
Lutheran Church" of Danville. On May nth, 1856, Rev. Wil- 
lard resigned, after serving the Lutheran people for more than 
six years. In July of the same year — 1856 — the congregation 
called Rev. M. H. Stover, of Waterloo, New York. He was in- 
stalled on the 2 1 st day of October in the same year. The sermon 
was preached by Rev. Geo. Parsons, President of the East Penn- 
sylvania Synod, the charge to the pastor was delivered by Rev. 
E. A. Sharretts, of Bloomsburg, and the charge to the people by 
Rev. R. A. Fink, of Lewisburg, Pa. Rev. Stoner served four 
years, resigning the charge Alay 14, i860. During his ministry 
the church building was erected 1858. The audience chamber, 
however, remained unfinished for some time, the congregation 
worshiping in the basement which was now neatly finished. 

Rev. EH Huber succeeded Rev. Stover. His ministry extended 
to only six months. Called Oct. 26, i860; resigned June 27, 
1861. During his stay and toward its close, an effort was made 
to unite the two English congregations under one pastor. 

A resolution of Council passed June 24, 1861, requested Rev. 
Huber to communicate with Rev. Hinkel, then pastor of Trinity 
Lutheran Church, proposing this union. A union, however, de- 
pendent upon the resignation of Rev. Hinkel. The matter failed, 
as Rev. Hinkel informed Rev. Huber that his people would not 
allow him to resign. Rev. Huber then resigned, as above stated 



2l8 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

June 27, 1 861. Rev. R. P. Lane was elected to succeed Rev. 
Huber August 18, 1861. Resigned August 16, 1863. During 
his pastorate the church was completed throughout and dedicated. 
October 25, 1863, at a congregational meeting, Rev. E. A. Shar- 
retts, of Orangeville, was unanimously elected as pastor and 
Nov. 29, 1863, regularly installed. On Feb. 25, 1866, resigned. 
An effort was made to have him withdraw his resignation but did 
not succeed. May 2j, 1866, Rev. Geo. M: Rhodes was chosen 
pastor, and on April 6, 1870, resigned. 

Rev. U. Graves was called August 2.7, 1870, and resigned June 
29, 1873. Rev. M. L. Shindel, of Selinsgrove, was elected pastor 
Dec. 14, 1873, and entered upon his duties March 1, 1874, and 
served this pastorate until June, 1906, when he was made Pastor 
Emeritus, and the Rev. L. W. Walter was elected assistant pastor. 
Dr. Shindel passed into rest in August, 1906, and Rev. L. W. 
Walter was elected pastor and served the congregation until 
1909. Rev. J. H. Musselman was then elected and resigned in 
1916. 

Much might be said of this congregation. It has had a varied 
and trying experience. Its membership ebbed and flowed as the 
industries of the town and as the business increased or decreased. 
The church building is a large and handsome one, and the audi- 
ence chamber as well as the lecture room are both nicely ar- 
ranged and beautiful. 

This congregation at the present date is one of the most sub- 
stantial in the Susquehanna Synod, owning valuable property 
consisting of church and parsonage, absolutely free from debt. 
Rev. D. C. Burnite became pastor in October, 1916. 



ST. JOHN'S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 
JERSEY SHORE, PA. 

The beginning of the St. John's Lutheran Church of Jersey 
Shore, Pennsylvania, like most congregations in their incipient 
days, was altogether unpretentious. Like many another, in its 
initial life, the church encountered much jealous opposition. A 
pastor of a sister church and man}' others urged lack of need of 
this additional church, and claimed that the original membership 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN' CHURCH 



2ig 



was composed of "'hired girls.*' This same minister, in his re- 
tired years, repeatedly found fellowship with the membership 
of this church, at their stated services, most desirable and help- 
ful. To-day, the church has the strongest membership, numeri- 
cally, of all of the twelve churches of the town. 

There is no absolutely accurate history of the church obtain- 
able. In iqoo, Mr. John Staver, deceased — a life-long resident 





i 








JO- 










^^q?^"^--- ^^^^^Tj 


ammftad il 


iV n ■ ? 1 


pnjj 


: I- - - - 


j i. 


I..-- ro._t f 1 1 











St. John's Church, Jersey Shore 



of this section, and a charter member of St. John's — "depending" 
almost entirely upon his wonderfully retentive memory." pre- 
pared a short history of the congregation, which is regarded by 
the older members as "entirely authentic." The items of early 
history herein recorded have been gleaned largely from that 
source. 

During the years from i860 to 1864. the Rev. Dr. Wm. L. 
Heisler, father of the late Rev. Dr. Charles W. Heisler, was pastor 
of the charge comprising the two Lutheran churches in Xippe- 
nose valley and the Garman church in Pine Creek township, 
three miles northeast of Jersey Shore. While serving this charge, 
he occasionally preached at Jersey Shore, on the second floor of 



220 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

the old engine house, but no attempt at effecting an organization 
is reported. 

Rev. H. B. Winton accepted a call to the Garman-Xippenose 
charge in the spring of 1866, and under his pastoral care much 
earnest work was accomplished. In the fall of 1866, Rev. Winton 
began preaching an occasional sermon in Calvert and Staver's 
Hall in Jersey Shore ; and, in a short time, an organization was 
effected with thirty-one charter members. The names of these 
charter members were : John Shadle, July Shadle, John Staver, 
Mary Staver, Lizzie Staver, Carrie Staver, John Knepley, Mary 
Knepley, John Lentz, Catharine Lentz, Joel Kline, Mary E. 
Kline, Frances L. Kline, Catharine Bailey, Elizabeth Rotharmel, 
Susan Rotharmel, Elizabeth Norton, Sophia Daubner, Sarah E. 
Winton, Antonetti Winton, Arbeline Winton, George M. Heis- 
ler, Henry Earner, Lucy A. Earner, Mary Miller, Edwin Shenk, 
Catharine Carpenter, Catharine Shenk, Charlott Miller, Sarah A. 
Farley, and Rebecca Barto. All of these are recorded as having 
been received by letter, April 29th, 1867. Mrs. Carrie (Staver) 
Sypher is the only surviving charter member who is enrolled 
among the present membership. 

During December of the same year (1867) the following were 
also received : Charles Friedle, William Lentz, S. Maltida Lentz, 
Jacob Knepley, Margret J. Knepley, Catharine Friedle, Elizabeth 
Bickel, Elizabeth Lentz Mitchell, M. L. Staver, John Bickel, 
Julia Lentz, Rachel Kurtz, Maggie Kurtz, Mary Shenk, Susan 
Shenk Myers, John Banschaff, Mary Banschaff, David Trump, 
Sarah Trump, Annie Mary Messimer, John Shultz, George Lentz, 
Anna Betts, Elizabeth Kurtz, Henry Hain, John Hain, Elizabeth 
Hain, Mary Keiffer and Julia Keiffer. All of these were re- 
ceived by profession of faith, except S. Maltida Lentz, who was 
received by letter. Eighty-four persons were received into 
church fellowship during the three years of Rev. Mr. W 7 inton's 
connection with the new organization, and seven of these are 
later credited with having' been "suspended." 

The first prayermeeting was composed of four members, who 
met in the pastor's home. Thus, by the foregoing it is apparent 
that the St. John's Lutheran Church of Jersey Shore can also 
boast of a very humble beginning. 

In the fall of 1867, a very successful protracted meeting was 
held in the hall. At the close of this effort, a meeting was held 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



221 



to consider the advisability of building a church; and resulted 
in the purchase of the double lot on which the present church 
edifice and parsonage stand, for the sum of $650.00. Early in 
the spring of 1868, digging for the foundation was begun; and, 
from the clay secured in the excavation, all the brick in the pres- 
ent building were secured and burned in a kiln erected within four 
feet of the east wall of the now standing church. In this manner, 
a very considerable amount of money was saved; as, by actual 
measurement there are 234,000 brick in the church and spire. 




Garman Church, Jersey Shore Charge 



The cornerstone was laid during the fore part of August, 1868. 
The sermon on the occasion was preached by Rev. G. W. Hemp- 
erly, assisted by Rev. Dr. S. Domer. 

In January, 1869, the lecture room was dedicated; following 
which, a very successful protracted meeting* was held, resulting 
in additional strength to the new organization. Rev. U. Graves 
preached the sermon of dedication. 

In August of 1868 the joint council of the Pine Creek, Xippe- 
nose Valley and Jersey Shore churches met, and amicably agreed 
to divide the charge; as one pastor could not cultivate the field 



2.22 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

properly. The two churches of Nippenose valley were consti- 
tuted one pastorate ; and Jersey Shore and Pine Creek another. 

In November, 1869, Rev. H. B. Winton resigned; and in Janu- 
ary. 1870, Rev. J. M. Steck assumed charge. The same year, 
the parsonage was completed and occupied by the pastor. Also 
in the same year, the spire was completed and the audience room 
plastered. In March, 1871, the church walls were frescoed, the 
seating placed, the pulpit and choir furniture arranged in order ; 
and, when in June, 1871, Susquehanna Synod held its session here, 
the completed building was fully and regularly dedicated to the 
service of Almighty God. The dedicatory sermon was preached 
by Rev. H. B. Belmer. The entire cost of the building opera- 
tions was $10,809.63. 

After laboring in the charge over five years, Rev. J. M. Steck 
resigned, and was succeeded by Rev. A. W. Lentz, w r ho con- 
tinued as pastor for three years. 

Rev. J. A. Bright followed Rev. Lentz and served about four 
years. 

Rev. W. H. Schoch assumed charge in April of 1882 and con- 
tinued for nine years, or to April, 1891. During his period of 
service, a congregation was organized and a church built at Sal- 
ladasburg ; and the Pine Creek Church, which had been destroyed 
by tire, was rebuilt. 

About this time, the charge was ag^ain divided: Pine Creek (or 
Garman) and Salladasburg- becoming a separate pastorate from 
St. John's, Jersey Shore. 

Rev. J. T. Gladhill accepted the Jersey Shore pastorate in the 
autumn of 1891, and continued as pastor until 1898. Shortly after 
locating in the parsonage, a very severe wind storm wrecked the 
high church spire ; carrying it almost bodily upon the roof of the 
parsonage kitchen and endangering the life of Mrs. Gladhill, Avho 
had stepped into an adjoining room but a minute or two before 
the roof and ceiling" crashed in. 

Rev. J. C. Fasold became pastor in October, 1898. During 
his pastorate the interior of the audience room was beautifully 
reconstructed, and other minor improvements made at an ex- 
pense of nearly $3,000. Rev. Fasold resigned in July, 1900, to 
take effect November 1st of the same year. In the record of his 
ministry at this church. Rev. Fasold indites these words : "Mv 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHL'RCH 223 

pastoral experience at Jersey Shore was not without experience, 
both to myself and the congregation.'' 

January ist, 1901, Rev. C. Fickinger became pastor of St. 
John's, and continued to serve it until June ist, 191 1, an active 
pastorate of more than ten years. There is no record of import- 
ant events during the time of this pastoral relation, except the 
holding of several successful revival meetings. 

Rev. A. E. Cooper, the present pastor, accepted a call to St. 
John's in October, 191 1. During the first three years of this 
ministry, the communicant membership of the church was more 
than doubled ; and, for the first time in the history of the con- 
gregation, the active membership numbered five hundred: thus 
becoming one of the strong and substantial churches of the 
Synod. The congregation has been one of the banner benevo- 
lent churches of the Synod for several years. Aside from the 
regular and external benevolences, two native Christian workers 
are being annually supported in the foreign field. 

A Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary Society was organ- 
ized in March of 1886. which has enjoyed a very active and phil- 
anthropic existence ever since. This society has provided the 
means for the building of four prayer-houses in India. A Mission 
Band, among the young people, was created during the year of 
1887, which has had a more-or-less active existence throughout 
the subsequent years. 

The live missionary spirit of the congregation has possibly 
been largely due to the fact that, during its early history, this 
congregation was a beneficiary for several years of the Home 
Mission Board. In his record of the early history of the congre- 
gation, the late Mr. John Staver — referring to the reception of this 
aid — makes the interesting comment : "Dear friends, the great 
benefit of home mission work is clearly proven in its ready re- 
sponse to our call for help." 

The Sunday School of the church has come to stand only sec- 
ond or third in numerical strength among all the schools of Ly- 
coming county : the enrollment, in all departments, running as 
high as seven hundred and over. The large Brotherhood class, 
and several other organized classes, having been very active for 
several years in soul winning, and as general spiritual and physi- 
cal aid to the church. 

Two large young people's societies have enjoyed an active ex- 



224 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

istence, and have filled an important office in the development of 
the life of the members. The senior society was organized about 
1880; and the junior in 1913 — May 18th. 

In the spring of 1914 the auditorium was refrescoed and gen- 
erally rebeautified and the Sunday School recarpeted, prior to the 
meeting of Susquehanna Synod with this people, at an approxi- 
mate cost of $1,000; all bills for which were paid from the church 
treasury without any solicitation of funds from the membership. 

At the present time the congregation are having plans prepared 
for a modern Sunday School building addition to the church, 
and a harmonizing reconstruction of a part of the original church 
edifice. 



GRACE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 
JERSEY SHORE, PA. 

Several unsuccessful attempts have been made to establish a 
General Synod Lutheran Church in the Third ward of Jersey 
Shore, that with the Garman Church and Salladasburg might 
form a pastorate. After which Dr. J. M. Steck and Rev. J. G. 
Griffith, a committee from Conference arranged for Rev. Griffith 
to preach for several months at Garman and Jersey Shore with a 
view to organization at the latter place. The generous and very 
courteous Swedish Lutheran congregation in the Third ward 
gave the use of their church at the nominal rental of twenty-five 
cents per service. 

Rev. A. R. Glaze, after having preached at Garman, Salladas- 
burg, and Jersey Shore, on May 29th, 1899, became pastor of 
these congregations, at a salary of $650.00. Distributed as fol-i 
lows: Garman, $300, Salladasburg $100, the Third Lutheran $150, 
and the Susquehanna Synod $100. On Sunday, September 10th, 
1899, twelve members were provisionally rceived at Jersey Shore, 
a week's service was held from October 26th to November 2nd 
by pastor Glaze, assisted by Rev. U. Myers, President of Synod, 
Rev. A. O. Mullen, Secretary of Synod, and Rev. J. G. Griffith. 
At the last service of the series twelve were added to the congre- 
gation and a constitution was adopted. The following Sunday 
the second communion was held. Rapid growth seemed to be 
assured. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



225 



Rev. Griffith bad organized on May 21st a Sunday School of 
31 members, which at the time of the organization of the congre- 
gation, November 2nd. 1899. had almost doubled its membership. 
Rev. Glaze was regularly installed November 3d. The ceremony 
being conducted in the Garman Church. Rev. U. Myers, Presi- 
dent of Synod, delivered the charge to the pastor, and Rev. D. E. 
Rupley to the congregation. A Pastor's Aid Society was or- 
ganized November 18th, 1899. at r ^ e home of John A. Peterson. 




Grace Church, Jersey Shore 

The following persons were present : Rev. A. R. Glaze, Mrs. 
E. J. Glaze. Mrs. Nora Peterson. Mrs. M. H. Strauss, and Mrs. 
Mary Jane Russell. December 3d. 1899. "Twentieth Century 
Memorial" was adopted as the name of the church. Rev. Glaze's 
records end January 19th. 1902. 

Soon after this the congregation seems to have disbanded. In 
the minutes of the Synod, 1903, there appears a resolution rec- 
ommending a reorganization of the congregation. A similar 
resolution appears again in the minutes of 1904. In 1905 the 
President of Synod recommends in his annual report that a can- 
vass of that part of the city be made. In pursuance of this rec- 



Luth. Synod — 15 



226 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

ommendation it was resolved at this same meeting of Synod that 
an effort be made to reorganize the congregation, and form a pas- 
torate with Trinity, Avis, and Garman. 

September 4th, 1905, at a meeting held in the Swedish Lutheran 
Church, a reorganization was effected with 36 members by Rev. 
B. S. Dise, supervising pastor. Upon the reorganization the 
name "Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church" was adopted. The 
following entered into the organization: W. P. Harris, Mrs. W. P. 
Harris, E. J. Freet, Mrs. E. J. Freet, F. S. Bock, Lillian Bock, 
J. Ellis Morris, Mrs. Priscilla Morris/I. C. McClintic, Mrs. Mc- 
Clintic, Miss Jean Sperring, A. E. Dougherty, L. C. Huyler, Vir- 
ginia Huyler, Lizzie A. Mover, Amy B. Curts, Clara Moon, D. 
Clarence Mover, J. L. Davis, Anna Margaret Davis, E. H. Mil- 
ler, Mrs. E. H. Miller, Mrs. A. E. Dougherty, Mrs. Mary Bon- 
nell, W. P. Bock, Airs. H. P. Bock, B. M. Bierly, Carrie Morris, 
Hazel Mover, Helen Mover, Luther Glaze, Raymond Glaze, J. H 
Myers, Ella Myers, W. H. Feig, Minnie Feig — 36. April 23-24, 
1906, the West Branch Conference met with this congregation. 
A canvass was made and seventy Lutheran families were found 
in the Third ward. The mission was recommended to Synod 
for aid which was pledged by the Synod at its next meeting. A 
charter was granted the congregation June 18th, 1906. The 
chapel or church was built during the year of 1907 at a cost of 
'$4,500. During the summer of 1907 George D. Clark, a student 
supplied the church for some months. January 19th, 1908, the 
services of dedication were held. Rev. A. Stewart Hartman, 
D. D., General Secretary of the Board of Home Missions, of- 
ficiated. Probably Dr. H. H. Weber, Secretary Board of Church 
Extension, was present also. 

December 18th, 1907, Rev. B. F. Kautz accepted a call to the 
church and became its pastor. He served this church alone until 
February 1st, 19 10, when a pastorate was again formed of Trin- 
ity, Avis, and Garman with Grace and Rev. Kautz became pastor 
of the three churches. February 1st, 1912, Rev. Kautz resigned. 

May 1st, 1912, Rev. John H. Barb, D. D., became pastor of this 
charge and has continued in this field to the present. Gratifying 
progress has been made since 19 12. Then the membership num- 
bered about 40. Now the enrollment is 170. In this period a 
mortgage indebtedness of $1,800 has been cancelled. The interior 
of the church has been beautified greatly by frescoing and re- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 22/ 

carpeting. A piano has been placed in the church. The outside 
has been repainted. These improvements have aD been paid for. 
This church has had a hard struggle, but the future is bright 
with promise. 



A HISTORY IN BRIEF OF CHRIST'S EVANGELICAL 

LUTHERAN CHURCH. THIRD AXD LOCUST 
STREETS, LEWISBURG. PA. 

By Rev. H. C. Rose. 

In writing a brief history of our strong old church, the method 
of our treatment of the story is outlined for us. 

In 1876 Rev. W. W. Criley, then pastor, wrote a history of 
the church up to that date. In this account, he wove the history 
of the organization into the ministries of the different pastoris 
who had served here. Many of the facts he presented came 
from the memories of the then older members. 

In 1887 Rev. E. H. Leisenring compiled a history from the 
Rev. Criley's history and brought it down to date. Even what 
data these men had access to has since been destroyed by fire. 
Hence we use their facts, follow their method, and simply add 
to, and bring to date their history. Mrs. Jane Wolfe and Mr. 
C. F. Lindig also wrote histories of the church, using this same 
method. 

Rev. John Herbst. 

In 1802. Rev. John Herbst, pastor, residing in Freeburg, Sny- 
der County, came occasionally and preached the word to a few 
people of the Lutheran faith here. These services were held in 
a small log school house situated where the present church build- 
ing now stands. This marked the beginnings of our present work. 

Rev. William Hgin, 

Of Penn's Valley, Center County, came as the second torch- 
bearer. He preached once a month from 1803 to 1807. The dis- 
tance he was obliged to travel, and the number of congregations 
he served, prevented him from giving much attention to the needs 
of a few seekers after truth here. At this time there was no or- 
ganization ; and out of their love for human souls, these great- 
hearted fore-runners simply came and sowed the seed. 



228 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Rev. Conrad Walter 



Supplied the faithful few during- the year 1808. He lived in 
Freeburg, Snyder County. 



_ 




Christ's Church, L,ewisburg 

Rev. George Heim 

Served as pastor from 1809 to 1828. Rev. Heim had the ad- 
vantage of living nearer to Lewisburg than any of his predeces- 
sors. His home was in Buffalo Vallev near the Dreisbach 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 229 

Church. In a sense this ministry marked the real beginning of 
our Church's history in Lewisburg. At this time a regular or- 
ganization was effected and church officers were elected. Ser- 
vices were held part of the time in the old Christian meeting 
house which then stood on North Fifth Street, near St. Mary's. 
Later the services were held in a school house on the present 
church property. This time a new brick instead of the old log 
house. In this Lutheran center, even then there seems to have 
been good congregations. It is related that on one occasion the 
building was so filled that a prominent member must take his 
place behind the door. The pastor prefaced his sermon by saying 
that he would preach so plainly that even John behind the door 
could understand. 

Now came dissatisfaction, expressed by the younger worshipers, 
that the one sermon a month which they were privileged to hear, 
was in German which they could not well understand. The 
pastor could not easily preach in English, and was unwilling 
to introduce the language of this country. This caused a great 
loss, for the young people went to, and ultimately united with 
other churches where they could better understand the services. 
After a vacancy of a couple years the congregation secured the 
services of 

Rev. J. G. Anspctch 

then residing at MifBinburg. This was in 183 1. He continued 
as pastor for thirteen years. 

Ludwig Derr, the owner of the present church lot, presented 
it for burial purposes, with the privilege of the church erecting a 
church building if they thought it a proper move. This congre- 
gation then worked in co-partnership with the Reformed congre- 
gation and in 1834 completed a Union Church — to be used by 
both denominations. This building stood on land now covered by 
our present church. The edifice erected was of brick and nearly 
square (40x50) and had galleries on three sides. 

Now another request came from the younger members of the 
congregation for some English preaching. In 1843 the officers 
arranged with Rev. Dr. H. Zeigler, of Selinsgrove, to preach 
once a month in English. Rev. Anspach resigned in 1844. When 
he began his ministry there were twenty-one members enrolled 
and he left to his successor a membership of one hundred eighty. 



230 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYXOD 

Rev. P. Ruthrauff 

Served as pastor from 1846 to 1849, in conjunction with the 
church at Milton where he lived. Rev. Ruthrauff introduced al- 
ternate German and English preaching. This proved very bene- 
ficial. The younger people were satisfied; and the old prejudice 
against the use of the English language in the pulpit was in part 
overcome. 

During this ministry a prayermeeting was established as a reg- 
ular form and means of worship. The church grew both numer- 
ically and spiritually. 

Rev. M. J. Alleman 
Came to this congregation in 1849. He was then pastor at 
Northumberland. In the spring of 1850 he removed to Lewis- 
burg and became the first resident pastor of the church. He 
continued to divide his labors between the Lewisburg and North- 
umberland churches. He was installed April 6th, 1850, as. near 
as is known this was the first installation service here. 

During this pastorate there was an unsuccessful effort made 
to divide the church property, then owned by the Reformed and 
Lutheran congregations. A little later the property was sold 
by the Court, July 19th, 1851. It was purchased by Michael 
Brown, of the Reformed Church. The trustees of our church 
then bought the property for the Lutheran congregation for the 
sum of fifteen hundred dollars. The Court granted them a deed. 
The congregation soon began to tear down the old Union Church 
in order to erect a better and more modern church building. The 
cornerstone of the new church was laid in June, 1852, Rev. Alle- 
man resigned in August, 1852. 

Rev. Jesse Winecoff 

Was immediately elected pastor and came to help complete the 
church building. Services were held in the basement of the new 
building until the spring of 1853, wdien the completed church 
was dedicated. The church was chartered in 1853. 

But little is known of the work of Rev. WinecofL He resigned 
in 1855. 

Rev. Reuben Pink 
Was elected pastor and came in 1856. Rev. Fink was the first 
pastor who gave his entire time and energy to the Lewisburg 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 23* 

church. The congregation grew and prospered, especially in 
the first years of his ministry. During this pastorate a parsonage 
was built in 1858 and other improvements made and new systems 
introduced. He received a call from Johnstown, Pennsylvania,. 
and resigned here October 15th, 1865, after a pastorate of nine 
years. The membership was now three hundrd and twenty-eight. 

Rev. Joshua Evans 

Came to Lewisburg in June, 1866, from Hagerstown, Maryland. 
He was an earnest, active and zealous man, and no doubt would 
have done a good and permanent work for the Church had not 
his health failed. In Harrisburg at the General Synod meeting 
in June, 1868, he was stricken with paralysis. He died Janu- 
ary 29th, 1869. 

Before the year 1867 this congregation was connected with the 
East Pennsylvania Synod of the General Synod. In this year 
the Susquehanna Synod was formed and our congregation be- 
came a part of it, even though we are on the soil of the Central 
Pennsylvania Synod. 

Rev. L C. Burkhaltcr (later Burke) 

Was elected as pastor and entered upon his duties in April, 1869. 
Under his leadership the congregation grew so rapidly that it 
became necessary to enlarge the church building. This was done 
by adding twenty-five feet to the rear of the old church edifice. 
The church thus enlarged was re-dedicated December 28th^ 
1873. The building committee was J. W. Hensel, C. F. Lindig, 
and C. A'. Van Gundy. In December, 1874, Rev. Burke resigned 
and moved to Columbia. Pennsylvania. The membership was 
now three hundred and fifty. 

Rev. W. IV. Criley 

Preached his first sermon here as pastor April 4th, 1875. 

Dr. Criley saw the need of a church history, and its value to 
the future generations. Hence he spent much time and labor 
gleaning from scanty sources the story of the beginnings of our 
old church. 

He was very successful in his pastorate here and many were 
added unto the church. He lives in grateful memory in the 
minds of manv of our old members. 



232 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

He accepted a call from the Second Church, of Altoona, and 
resigned here in March, 1882. 

The church membership at this time totaled four hundred and 
twenty. 

Rev. J. R. Shoffner 
Was his successor. 

Rev. Shoffner was a high churchman. His extreme views in 
church relations did not suit the time and place where he min- 
istered. He began his labors here in January, 1883, and resigned 
March 31st, 1884. 

Rev. B. H. Leisenring 

Was called as pastor and entered upon his work here November 
1, 1884. During this ministry the parsonage was repaired at 
considerable expense. 

On June 17th, 1885, a pipe organ was dedicated to the worship 
of God, and the entire indebtedness standing against the church 
was wiped out. Rev. Leisenring writing about it said : "It was 
a grand and happy day." 

In compiling his history of the church in 1887, from that writ- 
ten by Dr. Criley in 1876, Rev. Leisenring says: "The congre- 
gation must now have been in existence about eighty-five years. 
It became a regular organization about sixty-five years ago." 
This would make the formal organization and election of church 
officers to date from the removal to the place of worship from 
the old church on North Fifth street, to the brick school house 
that stood where our church now stands. This change was 
made in 1822. 

About two hundred members were added to the church dur- 
ing this pastorate. Rev. Leisenring closed his work here on 
January 1st, 1890, and moved to Chambersburg, Pa. 

Rev. L. L. Sieber 

Began his work here April 1st, 1890. , 

The Doctor's ability to preach good instructive sermons drew 

many people to the regular service of the church. This of course 

meant a securing, welding and molding of those admitted into a 

more secure and firm church membership. 

Dunns" this ministry of three years one hundred and forty- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 233 

three new members were received. Dr. Sieber closed his work 
April 1st, 1893. 

Rev. I. H. McGann 

Began his ministry November 15th, 1893. This departed saint 
was an exceptional man in his powers and influence. Seeds of 
righeousness and reform sown by him will bear fruit many years 
to come in our church. 

How he won the hearts of the people, how he entered the 
homes of the poor, how he labored in season and out of season, 
how he plead for some much needed church reforms, how he 
plead for the cause of righteousness, how he admonished the 
sinful, how he believed in every man and gave every one a chance 
— these stories have been told over and over to us on the streets 
of our town. 

During his ministry here 188 children were admitted into the 
Kingdom by infant baptism. The records show that he received 
588 persons into church-fellowship. Dr. McGann's living me- 
morial, in this his beautiful church in which we now worship. The 
first move for a new church was made by the Ladies' Aid Society 
in 1897. Charles M. Hess brought the new church project before 
the Church Council April 24th, 1898. For the time being it 
was tabled. The first Monday in January, 1899, Rev. McGann 
circulated ballots among the members, to vote yes or no for a 
new church building-. Three hundred and sixty-six ballots were 
returned marked "Yes" and eleven "No." The cornerstone of 
our church was laid September 15th, 1901. Many visiting pas- 
tors and distinguished people were present. The Trustees and 
building committee were T. N. Reber, Williard Oldt, John Rine, 
A. A. Leiser, Esq., and C. Dale Wolfe. In April, 1901, they con- 
tracted with Joseph C. Xesbit to erect a church building. The 
acting architect, Jacob Xaschold. was carrying out the plans 
of his departed foreman Mr. Lansdown. Differences between 
these two men when the building was well started caused Mr. 
Xesbit to give up the work. When the trustees attempted to re-let 
the contract for the building a law suit resulted. Here the keen 
insight and interest in the church manifested by A. A. Leiser, 
Esq., saved for the congregation their case and possibly their 
property. 



2^4 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

The Hummelstown Brown Stone Company had furnished 
the material. In order to save themselves great loss (for Mr. 
Nesbit went into bankruptcy) the Company, E. K. Walton, presi- 
dent, took the contract to complete the building. They resumed 
work on August 5th, 1901. The completed brown-stone church 
was dedicated September 7th, 1902. On dedication day the 
amount of twenty-three thousand five hundred and nine dollars : 
and sixty-one cents ($23,509.61) was raised and subscribed. The 
church building alone of our church property is worth possibly 
$65,000.00. 

Rev. McGann took suddenly ill while attending the General 
Synod Sessions in Sunbury. He died that same evening May 
27th, 1907. Rev. McGann's work was very successful and our 
one great regret is that w T e couldn't see in him the worth and 
merit while living that we see since he is gone. The records 
at this time show a total membership of 556. 

Rev. J. F. Seebach 

Followed as pastor November 1st, 1907. Rev. Seebach under- 
took a difficult task when he attempted to minister to a people 
who were mourning the loss of a former pastor by death. Then 
too the congregation was in part divided. Yet his strong per- 
sonality and scholarly •attainments could not be hidden, and 
manifested themselves in his work among this people. The 
task of paying off the church debt was the great work that fell 
upon the shoulders of the pastor and his faithful co-workers. 
This was accomplished, and the congregation was again free 
from a heavy indebtedness. During this ministry two hundred 
and sixty-one new members were received. On Sunday morn- 
ing, December 1st, 19 12, the parsonage was destroyed by fire. 
Rev. Seebach closed his work here December 31st, 1913, and 
removed to Hollidaysburg. 

The membership at this time was 661. 

Rev. H. C. Rose 

The present pastor began his work in Lewisburg September 
1st, 1913. The trustees of the church were appointed a building 
committee to erect a porsonage to replace the old one destroyed 
by fire. This committee consisted of A. A. Leiser, Esq., C. Dale 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 235 

Wolfe, William Gast, T. X. Reber, and William Haas. The 
contract for the parsonage was given to Albert Boyer in Octo- 
ber, 1 91 3. The building was completed May ist, 1914, at a cost 
of almost $10,000.00. 

During the Fall of 1914, the trustees, Frank Catherman, 
Harry Stahl, William Gast, Ferd Lindig and E. B. Riehl were 
appointed a building committee to erect suitable stables for the 
convenience of those who came to church with teams and auto- 
mobiles. This was done at a cost of more than twelve hundred 
dollars. 

At the present time we have a church plant valued in full at 
possibly $90,000.00. 

During the present pastorate of less than three years 222 new 
members have been added to the church. The Sunday School, 
under the very able leadership of Attorney Cloyd Steininger, Su- 
perintendent, is quite a live-wire organization. It has reached 
its high-water mark in attendance, as well as its highest attend- 
ance within the last two years. We have the largest school in 
our county. 

The Ladies' Aid Society, Mrs. Frank Catherman, President, 
has for years been an important factor as a helper in the home 
church's work and finance. 

We have two large and active Missionary Societies. The 
Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary Society, Miss Anna 
Van Gunday, President, has been teaching the missionary spirit 
for years. The Young Women's Society has lately been organ- 
ized and is the largest society of its kind in the Synod. Mrs. 
H. C. Rose is the President and organized the Society. 

Our choir is an organization of exceptional merit. It has 
proved itself to be a very efficient drawing power to bring people 
to the regular services of worship. The church's boy-organist, 
J. Leo Hess, began to play when he was fifteen years old, and is 
after two years of experience, the most popular organist in the 
town. A male chorus, a male quartet, and also a choir of boys 
sing occasionally and add variety and interest. The music is 
an attractive feature of our worship. Our church services are 
very well attended. 

The present debt is less than $4,000.00. 

The total membership of the church is now 807. 



236 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

ALL SAINTS' EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 
KULPMONT, PA. 

By A. L. Dii^i^nb^ick. 

The matter of organizing" the Lutherans in Kulpmont, Pa., 
was brought to the attention of the West Branch Conference 
of the Susquehanna Synod in session at Snydertown, Pa., in 
February, 191 5, by Rev. A. L. Dillenbeck, pastor of Grace Evan- 
gelical Lutheran Church in Mount Carmel, Pa. A committee 
consisting of Revs. A. L. Dillenbeck and W. E. Fischer, D. D., 
and Charles W. Landis and R. C. Fagley, M. D., the two last 
named being residents of Kulpmont, was appointed to report 
to the meeting of the Susquehanna Synod at its meeting in May, 

This committee canvassed Kulpmont and reported to Synod 
advising the continuance of a Sunday School which had been 
organized March 21, 1915, by Rev. A. L. Dillenbeck. Synod ac- 
cepted the report and the matter was put in the hands of the 
Synodical Home Mission Committee, Rev. F. P. Manhart, D. D.. 
President of Synod, chairman. 

Through the efforts of this committee, preaching services were 
begun Sept. 12, 191 5, by Rev. F. P. Manhart, D. D., and con- 
tinued by him or by students until April 23, 191 6. Dr. Manhart 
organized a congregation of 47 charter members on November 
7, 191 5. During the winter student A. W. Smith served them 
frequently and acceptably and also catechized the children. 

Rev. A. L. Dillenbeck installed the church council March 5, 
1916. and on Easter Sunday confirmed the first class of six, 
administered communion, and was at that time formally called 
as pastor. The call was accepted as the best solution to the 
problem of serving this church with preaching and pastoral 
services. He was installed as pastor in May by Dr. Fischer, of 
Shamokin. 

In March, 1916, two lots were purchased at the corner of 
Scott and Twelfth streets, under the advice of Dr. Yarger, of 
the Board of Home Missions and Church Extension. They cost 
seventeen hundred dollars ($1,700.00). By June 1, 1916, the 
sum of $1,300.00 had been paid on these with the liberal assist- 
ance of friends in Shamokin and Mount Carmel. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 237 

June n, 1916, a congregational meeting was held, Dr. W. E. 
Fischer presiding, at which it was decided to build and to ask 
the Board of Church Extension for aid. On July 18th, 1916, 
it was decided to erect a building to cost about $5,000.00, and 
the following building committee was elected : R. C. Fagley, 
M. D., Chairman; A. L. Dillenbeck, Secretary; Walter Karbley, 
G. W. Stroup, I. K. Small. 

Plans for a building on the rear of the lot for the Sunday 
School and a basement were adopted. Building operations will 
begin in the spring of 1917. 



CHRIST'S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 
MILTON, PA. 

By Rev. I. P. Zimmerman, 

Owing to the felt need of a second Lutheran Church in Milton 
one hundred and twenty-four members of Trinity Lutheran 
Church of the same town, with others, held a preliminary meet- 
ing in Lincoln Street School House June 21st, 1888, for the 
purpose of considering- such an organization. 

Mr. Peter Oliphant was chosen temporary chairman, and Mr. 
John Steigerwalt as secretary. 

After due consideration of the matter a resolution was passed 
to meet in the Opera House in two weeks from date, to organize 
a Lutheran congregation, adopt a constitution, and elect a church 
council. 

In accordance with the above resolution at the meeting called 
for the purpose July 5th, 1888, the constitution w T as adopted and 
the first council elected, consisting of the following brethren : 
Elders, Messrs. Peter Oliphant, Edward Hoy, W. A. Reed, John 
Newcomer; deacons, Messrs. John Noriconk, Charles Gast, Wil- 
liam Wetzel, Israel Wehre, Thomas Hafer ; trustees, Messrs. 
W. A. Reed, J. F. Wolfinger, and Daniel W. Kramer. 

The council held its first meeting July nth, 1885, elected its 
officers and extended a call to Rev. J. A. Flickinger to become the 
first pastor. 

September 19th, 1888, at a congregational meeting the trustees 



23$ 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



were authorized to purchase the lots whereon the church was 
subsequently erected, located in Center street. 

At the same meeting the building committee was appointed. 

Rev. J. A. Flickinger, the pastor-elect, took formal charge 
Dec. ist, 1888. 

Ground was broken for the new building Jan. ist, 1889, an( * the 
corner-stone laid Feb. 27th of the same year. 

Rev. S. P. Hughes, D. D., preached the sermon for the occa- 




Christ Church, Milton 

sion, assisted by Dr. P. Born, Dr. F. P. Manhart and Rev. S. G. 
Shannon. 

The building was erected as speedily as possible, and on May 
5th, 1889, was occupied for the first time, although not com- 
pleted. 

The dedication of the church took place October 6th, 1889, 
when Rev. J. H. Menges, D. D., preached the sermon, assisted 
by Dr. P. Born, Dr. J. R. Dimm and Dr. John Wagner. 

This work was all accomplished by this devoted people without 
any aid from the Home Mission or Church Extension Boards. 

Rev. J. A. Flickinger resigned as pastor on account of ill 
health, November ist, 1890. 

Jan. 4th, 1891, the Rev. M. S. Romig was elected as pastor 
and entered upon his duities a month later. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 239 

His pastorate extended to June ist, 1894, when he tendered 
his resignation. 

Rev. W. H. Fahs was elected as the third pastor July 15th, 
1894, and entered upon his duties in September of the same 
year. 

During this pastorate many improvements were made to the 
church building, and the debt considerably reduced. 

Rev. W. H. Fahs resigned Nov. 3rd. 1896, to take effect Dec. 
ist, 1896. 

Rev. M. H. Havice was elected as the next pastor Jan. 17th, 
1897, entering upon his duties in February of the same year. 

His installation took place May 20th, 1897. 

In the spring of 1899 many church improvements were made, 
the building was painted, frescoed, pews placed in auditorium, 
taking the place of the chairs used until then. 

The marble steps placed at the entrance of both front doors, 
and a beautiful chandelier placed in auditorium, were the gifts 
of Mrs. Martha Farley and Mr. Michael Farley. 

The rededicatory services were held April 9th, 1899. Rev. 
J. H. Weber, D. D., and Rev. I. H. McGann, D. D., preached 
the sermons. $1,346.00 were subscribed during the day, cover- 
ing the total indebtedness. 

July, 1 901, the Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary So- 
ciety of the congregation presented to the congregation a very 
beautiful individual communion set. which was very gratefully 
received. 

In March, 1903, the auditorium was beautifully carpeted at a 
cost of $3 t 8.00. 

Rev. M. H. Havice after a service of over seven years resigned 
as pastor June ist, 1904, to take effect July ist of the same year. 

The compiler of this history, and the present pastor, Rev. I. P. 
Zimmerman, A. M., was unanimously elected September nth, 
1904, and assumed charge October 17th, of the same year. 

For various reasons, and conditions the congregations had 
resting upon it again an indebtedness of $1,300.00 when the 
present pastor took charge. 

At the January, 1905, congregational meeting, the pastor asked 
permission to solicit subscriptions to cancel the indebtedness, 
which request was readily granted. Much interest was mani- 
fested, and money came in very encouragingly, so that after all 



240 TH£ SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

floating obligations were met, a five hundred dollar mortgage 
was also cancelled and burned September 3rd, 1905, at a public 
service. Many improvements were made during the remainder 
of the current year. 

February 4th, 1906, at a congregational meeting the pastor 
reported the total amount of the indebtedness in hand within a 
few dollars, which was raised immediately amidst great enthusi- 
asm. 

The final mortgage and note burning took place February 18th. 
1906, the same amounting to six hundred and thirty dollars. A 
very enthusiastic congregational meeting followed when further 
improvements were agreed to be made. 

The total amount of indebtedness and interest paid in thirteen 
months amounted to fourteen hundred dollars. 

March 26th, 1906, the congregation presented to the pastor a 
beautiful gold watch valued at seventy-five dollars, as a token 
of their appreciation of his arduous labors. 

On the 20th of June, 1906, a compensating pipe organ was 
placed in the auditorium, and dedicated on the twenty-fourth of 
the same month. Rev. F. P. Manhart, D. D., preached the dedi- 
catory sermon. 

During 1907 repairs to the library, lecture room, pastor's study 
and rear vestibule were made at a cost of $510.00, all provided 
for. 

During 1908 the auditorium of the church and front vestibules 
were repaired, the ceiling being covered with metal and beauti- 
fully painted, and the walls frescoed, at a total cost of $1,335.00. 
all provided for before the day of re-dedication, which took 
place August 30th, 1908, when Trinity Lutheran congregation 
kindly closed its doors, and in large numbers worshiped with us, 
while their former pastor, Rev. W. H. Gotwald, D. D., preached 
the sermon, and their present pastor, Rev. J. M. Reimensnyder, 
D. D., assisted in the services. At this service also a marble 
baptismal font was presented to the congregation by Mrs. J. M. 
Foust, now gone to her reward. 

During 191 2 a canvass was made for the introduction of the 
duplex envelope system which was used for the first time Janu- 
ary 1st, 191 3. 

July the 6th, 1913, the 25th anniversary of the organization 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 24I 

of the congregation was observed, and very interesting statistics 
given. 

During May, 191 6, an altar and new pulpit chairs were pre- 
sented to the congregation by the Ladies' Aid Society, and two or- 
ganized Sunday School Classes, as well as two Bible for pulpit 
and reading desk, presented by a class and a friend in the Sun- 
day school. 

By the time this History will appear in print, the longest 
pastorate of the congregation will have reached twelve years, if 
God spares the life of the present incumbent ; a relationship which 
has not been without discouragement and disappointments, but 
a relationship of the utmost harmony and co-operation between 
pastor and his council and congregation. 

During these twelve years 606 members have been added to 
the church, $12,126.00 paid for benevolence, and $26,865.00 for 
local purposes. 

The prospects for continual growth and development at this 
writing are very encouraging. 

May God have all the praise. 

(Rev. I. P. Zimmerman resigned Oct, 31, 1916. Rev. J. A. 
Richter was installed March 4, 1917.) 



HISTORY OF TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH. 
MILTON. PA. 

Rev. J. M. Reimexsyder, D. D. 

Trinity Lutheran Church of Milton, Pa., is one of the oldest 
and largest congregations in Central Pennsylvania. Its history 
covers a period of more than a century. 

Like most of our congregations its early history is not con- 
tained in Church Records. As far back as 1796, services were 
occasionally held in Milton by a German Lutheran minister as 
he passed through the vicinity. Milton had early settlers of the 
Lutheran faith. Services were held at this time in a log build- 
ing on Lower Market street. This building was erected for 
both the purpose of worship and education. From 1796 to 1802 
— services were held in this building, at intervals. However 
there is no record of an organization. In 1802, the Lutherans 

Luth. Svnod — 16 



2 4 : 



THE! SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



transferred their place of worship to a new school house on 
Broadway. Meetings were conducted at this place until 1807. 
At this later date in union with the German Reformed Church 
a lot was purchased on Mahoning street and a substantial log- 
structure erected to serve the double purpose of worship and 
parochial schools. At this time there must have been a regular 
organization if not earlier; but no record remains, as most of 




Trinity Church, Milton 



the records, both of the church and members were destroyed in 
the great conflagration of 1880, which destroyed the church and 
most of the homes of the members. 

These services were conducted by supplies, Revs. Eyre, Stock 
and Engle from 1807-1811. 

In 181 1, Rev. P. Repass became the first regular pastor. He 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 243 

served as pastor, preaching in the new school house on Mahoning 
street, until 1817. 

During his ministry a regular organization was effected and 
church officers chosen. 

In 18 1 7, the Lutherans, Presbyterians and Reformed congre- 
gations joined in the erection of a church edifice out along Ala- 
honing street and facing the town. A large cemetery still marks 
the spot and some of the old foundation has remained. The 
present pastor when a small boy once attended services conducted 
in this building. This was called "The Harmony Church." It 
was designed to be one of the largest and finest church edifices 
in Central Pennsylvania. It had large galleries and a sounding- 
board, with a high pulpit. The corner-stone was laid on Octo- 
ber 5th, 18 1 7. The pastors of the three congregations conducting 
the exercises and ceremonies. The dedication took place May 
23rd, 1819. At this time Philip H. Schroyer is mentioned as 
elder and John Hill as deacon. 

In 1850 the Lutherans sold their interest in this enterprise and 
withdrew. 

Rev. F. YVaage came to Milton in 1826. He was the first resi- 
dent pastor, the pastors at this period serving man}' adjacent 
places. 

The Sunday School was organized in 1840 as a Lutheran 
school August 9th, 1847. 

During the pastorate of Rev. (Hon.) J. J. Reimensnyder, fa- 
ther of the present pastor, the first Lutheran Church was dedi- 
cated on Mahoning street May 4th, 185 t. The present pastor 
of the church was confirmed in this church when in his thir- 
teenth year. 

The first Bible Class was organized July 18th, 1854. The 
Primary Department was organized November 5th of the same 
year. During the pastorate of Rev. George Parson, it was de- 
cided to sell the old church and a new site was selected on the 
corner of Mahoning street and Garfield avenue, where the pres- 
ent building now stands. The new building was a fine structure, 
large and well furnished. It had the highest spire in this vi- 
cinity. 

The building was erected and furnished at a cost exceeding 
830,000. The corner-stone was laid August 25th, 1867. The 
church was dedicated May 8th, 1870, during the pastorate of 



244 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Rev. U. Graves. Rev. J. A. Brown, D. D., president of the Lu- 
theran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, preached the ser- 
mon. 

In the great fire of May 14th, 1880, which practically de- 
stroyed the town, this church was burned with all of the others. 

May 17th, 1880, it was resolved to rebuild on the same foun- 
dation, part of the walls still standing. The present church was 
erected on this same foundation and dedicated March 26th, 1882. 
Dr. W. M. Baum preached in the morning and Dr. L. E. Albert 
in the evening. 

The present pastor, Rev. J. M. Reimensnyder, D. D., took 
charge as pastor September 1st, 1887, and has served 29 years. 

During the present pastorate the congregation has more than 
doubled its membership and its contributions. 

Many substantial improvements have also been made, and the 
Sunday School is one of the largest and most up-to-date in Cen- 
tral Pennsylvania. The Sunday School enrollment including the 
Cradle Roll and Home Department is 956. The congregation 
has 859 baptized members. The contributions for the past year 
amounted to $7,231.36, of this amount $1,794.69, was for benevo- 
lence. During the past two years, 240 members were added. 
The congregation has the largest church and Sunday School 
membership in the city. 

During the present pastorate of 29 years the apportionment 
has always more than been met and the congregation has been 
out of debt, and has a handsome sum of money laid up for a new 
church edifice which it soon hopes to erect. 

The amount of money contributed for all purposes during the 
present pastorate is $103,623.40, of this amount $23,829.83 was 
for benevolence, $16,000,00 was expended for improvements 
upon the church property and a fine pipe organ placed. 

1,208 members have been added during the present pastorate. 
The Woman's Missionary Society of this congregation was or- 
ganized in 1873 and is one of the most potent organizations of 
the church. It has 59 active members. 

In 1910 a fine church bell was presented by the congregation 
to our mission at Guntur, India, all expense of transportation 
being met by the congregation. A few years prior to this, one 
was presented to our African Mission, which is still doing 
service. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 245 

There has been no year in the present pastorate without acces- 
sions. The largest number of members added any one year 
was 190. The average annually for the past 29 years has been 
over 41. 

The congregation and its pastor are firm believers in a con- 
servative Lutheranism. No emotional or sentimental methods 
have ever been used. Reliance is placed upon the preaching of 
the pure Word of God, the adminstration of the Sacraments and 
the careful and regular catechisation of the young, firm reliance 
is placed in the Lutheran interpretation of the Scriptures and 
the historic creed and customs of the church. Thus through 
a long pastorate, trusting in the Holy Spirit for help and guid- 
ance, a strong and reliable congregation has been built up upon 
a religious educational basis, which speaks for itself and gives 
good evidence of the benefit of long pastorates and consistent 
life and instruction. Trinity stands for a true spirituality in 
religion. 

Pastors. 
Rev. Eyre 

Rev. Stock Supplies 1807-1811 

Rev. Engle 

Rev. P. Repass, 181 1- 

Rev. F. Waage, 1826-1829 

Rev. W. Garman, 1829-1830 

Rev. C. P. Miller, 1831-1833 

Rev. J. G. Anspach (supply), 1836-1837 

Rev. C. F. Steover, 1837-1842 

Rev. E. Swartz, 1842-1844 

Rev. F. Ruthrauff, 1845-1850 

Rev. J. J. Reimensnyder, 1851-1854 

Rev. C. C. Culler, 1854-1860 

Rev. T. T. Titus, 1861-1863 

Rev. S. P. Sprecher, 1863-1865 

Rev. George Parson, 1865- 1868 

Rev. U. Graves, \ 1868-1870 

Rev. A. Buhrman, 1871-1873 

Rev. W. H. Gotwald, 1873-1887 

Rev. J. M. Reimensnyder, 1887- 



246 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

GARMAN EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, PIXE 
CREEK TOWNSHIP, CLINTON COUNTY, PA. 

By Rex J. H. Barb, D. D. 

The early history of the Garman Lutheran Church is the story 
of the beginning- of Lutheran denominational life and work in 
the fertile and beautiful valley, at the confluence of Pine Creek 
and the West Branch of the Susquehanna. The records of this 
early period are very incomplete, but it is authentically estab- 
lished that at some time prior to 1845 R ev - Shultz, a German 
preacher, inspired with religious zeal and the Lutheran spirit of 
his native land, began, on his own initiative, a ministry to the 
Lutherans of this section and also in Nippenose valley, which 
has borne abundant fruit unto this day. 

He established monthly preaching in the home of John Zigler, 
one mile west of Chathams Run ; and, on the same day, at 
farmer Brown's home in Pine Creek township. A communion 
service was held once a year — preaching and all the services 
were conducted in the G'erman language. After the death of 
farmer Brown, Henry Garman, a resident of Pine Creek, in- 
duced Rev. Schultz to hold services in the Pine Creek school 
house. 

In February, 1845, Rev. F. A. Barnitz, of Harrisburg, was 
sent to this locality as an English missionary by the East Penn- 
sylvania Snyod. After preaching every two weeks for about 
seven months at Zigler's and at the school house, he held a pro- 
tracted service at the latter place, which resulted in a number of 
professions of faith. An organization was at once effected, with 
a charter membership of thirty, as follows : Henry and Hannah 
Garman, John and Mary Staver, Jacob and Sarah Hammerslev, 
George and Elizabeth Lehman, Joseph and Rebecca Martin, 
Molly Kline, Heppy Kline, Rachel Frey, John and Sarah Knepl- 
ing, Jacob and Sarah Kline, Catherine Esterline, Daniel Kline, 
John Yearick, John and Margaret Shiley, Mary Shiley, Michael 
and Catherine Wolf, Elizabeth Spong, John Bushey, Rebecca 
Myers, Mary Schaeffer, Daniel Gise. A Sunday School was 
promptly organized, which also has an unbroken record up to the 
school house and called Garman Evangelical Lutheran Church. 

(18470 



OE THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 247 

In 1847 R ev - Barnitz resigned and was succeeded by Rev. 
Joshua Evans, who took charge in 1848. During his pastoral 
care the first church was built, and a burying plot laid out ad- 
joining. Many of these faithful founders are now peacefully 
sleeping in this quaint old country church yard. Some of their 
descendants still constitute a part of the present German congre- 
gation; others had an influential part in the establishment of St. 
John's, Jersey Shore ; and still others are now an important part 
of the congregation of Grace Church, Jersey Shore, and of 
Trinity, Avis, Pa. 

Rev. Evans resigned in 1851. He was followed by Rev. Samuel 
Yingling, who served three years from 185 1 to 1854. Rev. 
Thomas M. Flint, of Baltimore, succeeded Rev. Yingling but soon 
after coming to the charge failing health compelled him to retire, 
and Rev. Peter Bergstresser was called to the pastorate. He 
served three years. Rev. J. H. Fahs next served them a short 
period, and was folowed by Rev. Wm. L. Heisler who continued 
in the field four years. Rev. Studebaker was the next pastor for 
a short time. 

In 1866 Rev. B. H. Winton became pastor and served until 
1869. During his ministry there were notable results from a 
special meeting. The numerical strength of the congregation was 
greatly increased and a new impulse was given to its life. In 
1868 the charge in the locality consisted of Garman, Jersey 
Shore, and the Xippenose Valley congregations was divided 
and Jersey Shore, and Garman were constituted a pastorate. 
After the resignation of Rev. AYinton in Xovember, 1869, Rev. 
W. H. Lentz (four years) and Rev. John M. Steck (five years) 
served the church until 1875. Then follow in the order named, 
Rev. John A. Bright, Rev. \Y. H. Schoch, Rev. H. T. Shadle and 
Rev. H. H. Flick up to 1897 — an d Rev. J. E. Zimmerman (three 
years), Rev. B. F. Kautz (two years), Rev. B. S. Dise, and Rev. 
J. Brubacker served the church up to 1912. May 1st, 1912, the 
present pastor, Rev. John H. Barb, D. D., took charge. The first 
church was built in 1846, and was destroyed by fire in 1889. In 
the same year it was re-built upon an adjoining lot donated by 
Henry Emory, and the old site made a part of the burying 
ground. The corner-stone was made by George W. Garman, 
Esq., and laid by Rev. John M. Steck, D. D. The new church 



248 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

was dedicated in August, 1889 by Rev. Schoch assisted by Rev. 
Chas. T. Steck, D. D., and Rev. John M. Steck. 

This church has always been associated with other congrega- 
tions, forming with them a pastorate, and while it is the mother 
of all the Lutheran churches of this locality it has never been 
able to have the exclusive services of a pastor. It has just now 
achieved its greatest strength numbering eighty-five members. 
The church has recently been beautifully papered, handsomely 
refurnished throughout and painted. This mother church has 
constantly contributed of her own strength in members and 
money to the founding and establishing the Lutheran Churches 
•of Avis, St. John's and Grace, Jersey Shore and Lock Haven. 



ST. PAUL'S, MILLVILLE 
By Rev. P. P. Manhart. 

The people of Millville and vicinity erected what they called the 
Free Church during the year 1880. At the dedication Rev. O. 
D. S. Marcley, Lutheran pastor at Bloomsburg, preached. Dur- 
ing the following January Rev. Frank P. Manhart preached in the 
Free Church for two weeks and then organized a Lutheran con- 
gregation with fourteen members. The congregation continued 
to worship in the Free Church until 1893 when the ground was 
purchased and the building still used was erectel. In connection 
with the movement resulting in the erection of the church, the 
congregation was reorganized by Rev. P. A. Heilman, pastor at 
Bloomsburg. 

The church building is of frame and is nicely located on ground 
•of fair size and shaded by beautiful sugar maples. 

For various periods the congregation formed a part of other 
■charges and was served by the pastors of these respective charges. 

The congregation was served for considerable periods by theo- 
logical students from Selinsgrove. These included D. F. Giles, 
R. A. White, Chas. Lambert, L. P. Young, W. H. B. Carney 
and B. A. Peters. 

Ministers who served as non-resident pastors of St. Paul's were 
Revs. S. P. Hughes, J. B. Burgner, and Frank P. Manhart. Mr. 



OF THK EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



249 



Manhart served from Dec, 1905 to Oct., 1907, and from Feb., 
1909 to April, 1916, a total of about nine years. 

The resident pastors have been Revs. J. V. Bodine, 188 1- 1882, 
M. M. Albeck, 1897-1899, (18 mos.), J. H. Easterday, 1905-1906 
(18 mos.) and J. E. Zerger, 1 907-1908 (12 mos.) 

There were considerable additions to the membership during 
1916, by which the congregation was greatly strengthened. 




St. Paul's Church, Xauvoo 



A BRIEF SKETCH OF THE MONTGOMERY LUTHERAN 

CHURCH. 



The Montgomery Evan. Lutheran Church came into being on 
the evening of November 1st, 1886, as a result of a personal 
canvass of the Lutheran people of the town of Montgomery. 
Eighteen members were found willing to unite themselves with 



250 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



the new organization. We could name this noble band, but we 
refrain from doing it because of needed space. Rev. II. A. 
Deitrich, then pastor of the White Deer charge, met the members 
at a private house on Broad street and there our church was born. 
These were the first officers : Elders, William Menges and 
Benjamin F. Bardo ; Deacons, P. F. .Hartranft, Alfred Burlev, 




Evangelical Lutheran Church, Montgomery 



William Welshans and D. W. Shollenberger, all of whom were 
duly installed by Brother Deitrich on November 3rd, 1886. 

But the congregation was homeless. Without a permanent 
church home, and without stated times for preaching and without 
a preacher the congregation soon disintegrated but the seed 
sown was not lost. 

On May 29th, 1888 Rev. J. A. W 7 irt, then Pres. of Susquehanna 
Synod appointed a meeting for the purpose of organizing a 
Lutheran congregation and this time thirty-two persons were 
willing to unite themselves in forming the congregation. The 
present name of the church was chosen at this meeting and a 
formula of church government was adopted. 

At the meeting of the Susquehanna Synod held at Lewisburg 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 2$1 

June 13th, 1888, the congregation was admitted into synod and 
her regular organization was duly recognized. 

The Presbyterian congregation kindly consented to allow the 
use of their church for services at a rental of $/$ per year. 

Steps were now taken to secure someone to supply the congre- 
gation with preaching and pastoral oversight. Rev. D. B. 
Treibley, then a student at Gettysburg, was secured to preach 
during his vacation from July 8th, 1888 to Sept., 1888. 

At this time a choir was organized and steps taken to provide 
a suitable building in which to worship. The present position of 
the church was selected and a building committee was formed. 
After much sacrifice and solicitude on the part of the building 
committee and the congregation, the new church was on May 
1 2th, 1 89 1 dedicated, with appropriate services to the worship of 
God. 

From this point let us briefly sketch the men who were the 
spiritual leaders of this noble band. Rev. J. A. Koser, then pastor 
of the Muricy charge was secured to take up the work in con- 
nection with his own. He began his work January 1st, 1889 and 
continued to Janury 1st, 1890. During his ministry the work 
was tendered Oct. 5th, 1891 to take effect January 1st, 1892. 

On March 30, 1890, Rev. S. P. Orwig was elected as the 
regular pastor, and served the people until his resignation which 
was rendered Oct. 5th, 1891 to take effect January 1st, 1892. 

On December 14th, 1891 a call was extended to Rev. S. M. 
Mountz, of Lairdsville, Pa., which was accepted and he began 
to serve the congregation January 1st, 1892. His pastorate con- 
tinued to April 5th, 1896 when he resigned. 

The congregation was without a pastor from April 5th, 1896 
to January 1st, 1897, DLlt tne pulpit was supplied during this 
time. At a congregational meeting March 7th, 1897 Rev. D. 
E. Rupley, of Espy, was duly elected. Bro. Rupley resigned 
and severed his pastoral relations with the congregation Aug. 1, 
1899. On Sept. 20, 1899, R ev - J- H. Lake, D. D., was elected 
as pastor, and began his work November 1st of the same year. 
Earnestly he worked, with a willing people helping him until 
death removed him. After a short interval Rev. M. H. Havice 
was chosen as the pastor. The parsonage was built at the begin- 
ning of his ministry. He and family soon occupying the house 
after being finished. This ministry was long and fruitful. Many 



252 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

were added to the church, the benevolence increased, and a large 
addition was at this time made to the church. Large Sabbath 
School rooms were provided for the Primary, Beginners and 
Junior departments, with rooms for two large classes, one each 
for men and women. Rev. M. H. Havice resigned February, 
191 3, removing to Lakewood, Ohio, where he assumed charge. 
Rev. F. L. Bergstresser, D. D., then of Chambersburg, Pa., was 
next chosen as pastor. He was installed August, 1913, and his 
ministry is now before the people. 

With a people co-operating, God has great things awaiting 
this church. The people are earnest and kind, sympathetic and 
helpful, and our ministry is one of joy. This brief sketch is 
fragmentary due to the imperious demand for space, but it will 
describe a church working for the Master in the past and wiling 
for the future. Sincerely, 

F. L. Bergstresser. 



LIBERTY CHARGE, TIOGA COUNTY. 

By Rsv. C. R. Streamer. 

It is impossible to state from our church records when Lu- 
theranism first came into the Liberty Valley but the his- 
tory of our congregations center definitely around Lutheran 
families who came direct from Germany to this section about 
1800. The earliest church records extant indicate that the first 
congregations were union, being composed of Lutherans and 
Reformed, and that the present Frieden's Evangelical Lutheran 
Church (situated just across the" Tioga county line in Block- 
house, Lycoming County, Pa.), stands near the site of the old 
log structure erected in 1827. So far as these records witness, 
it is possible the congregation existed before the church records 
were begun, as the early pastors did not keep historical data in a 
form to be handed down, but we find ministerial acts recorded 
in German as early as 1831 in the Frieden's Church Record 
Book. While the Zion's Church Book, union German Evangeli- 
cal Lutheran and Reformed in Blockhouse, Liberty township. 
Tioga County, Pa., gives names of pastors and dates as follows : 
E. Peixoto, 1837-1840; L. Dietzsch. 1840-1842; D. B. Saurs, 
1842-1845; I. Noecker, 1845-1848; J. Pritzinger, 1852-1854; 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



253 



J. L. Shade, 1854-1858; E. Studebaker, 1858-1865 ; J. G. Brun- 
inger, 1865- ; J- P- Shindle (no date); I. P. Neff, 1868- 1872, 
It was during the latter pastorate of Dr. Neff in which the 
Frieden's Evangelical Lutheran Church was formally organized, 
October 21, 1871, with 57 signers to the application for incor- 
poration, and the present two-story "brick" church was erected 
at a cost of $7,000. 




St. Paul's Church, Nanvoo 



Rev. A. B. Miller came to Liberty Valley Charge as a young 
man on April 2^, 1873, and found the Frieden's Church built 
but not nearly finished with a debt of $1,435 resting on it which 
was paid off in his second year. Besides this congregation, he 
had the Zion Union Church of Briar Hill, previously referred 
to, and the old Salem Lutheran and Reformed congregations to 
serve. Early in his pastorate the St. Paul's Union Church, at 
Nauvoo, was built at a cost of $1,275, of which sum the Luth- 
eran people gave $698, but gave equal rights to each of the other 
two denominations. Rev. Miller closed his first pastorate on 
Sept. 1, 1890, but was later unanimously re-elected pastor, taking 
charge a second time May 1, 1912, serving until in September, 



254 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

1914, all told about 20 years, during which time lie accomplished 
a great work. Rev. A. H. Shertz began his labors in this parish 
on September 1, 1890, but remained a little over a year. Rev. 
A. H. Weaver commenced his pastorate here January 1, 1892, 
and closed his work in December, 1894, but during his short 
stay the present handsome Salem edifice was erected at a cost 
of $1,900, being dedicated free of debt Dec. 9, 1894. Rev. D. B. 
Lau became pastor April 1, 1895, remaining until December 1, 
1900. It was during his pastorate (1897) the Sebring Church 
was built at a cost of $2,000 and the Liberty church, the same 
year, at a total cost of about $4,000. Rev. D. E. McLain took 
charge April 10, 1901, and served as pastor until July 20, 1909, 
when God called him higher. His body was laid to rest:, by the 
side of his son Paul, in God's acre at Salem church. During 
his pastorate the indebtedness on the parsonage was paid and 
the churches w r ere repainted, and otherwise improved. Rev. 
D. S. Weimer became pastor Jan. 16, 19 10, closing his labors in 
the fall of 191 1, when Rev. Miller (previously referred to) 
again served this charge for 2 years and 5 months. 

The present pastor, Rev. Chas. R. Streamer, took charge in 
October, 19 14, and in an humble way is trying to carry on the 
work of the Master, with the co-operation of a devoted people, 
in a way that will mean much for Christ and the Lutheran 
churches of Libertv Yallev. 



HISTORY OF THE REDEEMER CHURCH. 
WILLIAMSPORT, PA. 

Rev. J. E. Dale, Pastor. 

In accordance with the action of the Lutheran Ministerial As- 
sociation of Williamsport, work was commenced with a view to 
the organization of a Lutheran congregation in the First ward, 
in the fall of 1888. The Sunday School was organized Nov. n, 
1888, Rev. Albert Bell presiding at the meeting. The Sunday 
School met in the Ross School building, arrangements being- 
made also for services every Sabbath afternoon in the same 
place. In a short time, however, regular preaching was aban- 
doned, the Sabbath School continuing. Rev. A. L. Yount 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



255 



preached occasionally during the week and once in a while on 
Sunday afternoon. 

The Sunday School was composed of material not easily dis- 
couraged, and they determined to build up a Lutheran Church 
in the eastern part of the city. To accomplish this they felt that 
they must have a chapel, and at a Teachers' Association, May 
28, 1889, fifty dollars was voted as the first payment on the lot 
on which the church now stands. When the Association began 




Redeemer Church, Williamsport 

work they had but little more than two hundred dollars in the 
treasury. 

The corner-stone was laid Sept. 14, 1890. Addresses were de- 
livered by Rev. S. P. Hughes, of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 
Rev. Bowman, of Savannah, Ga.. and Rev. J. M. Steck, the first 
pastor. The work of completion went on under the direction 
of Bro. J. Heilhecker. to whose efforts largely can be attributed 
the success of the enterprise. He was assisted in collecting by 
Mrs. Ellis Tallman and Airs. Henry Metzger. The Sunday 
School at the same time doing all it could toward the building. 



256 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

But it was up-hill work for the little band, and sometimes it 
seemed that the effort to complete the building would have to be 
abandoned. But in their time of greatest need, the Association 
found warm-hearted friends of the enterprise in Mrs. Rosina 
Hess, and her children, Mrs. A. Neimeyer, Mrs. Henry Metzger 
and Godfrey Hess, and her grandchildren, Sophia and Louisa 
Neimeyer. Mr. David Stempfle also rendered liberal aid in 
money and work. Their timely help aided to bring the work to 
completion. A few days before dedication Mother Hess was 
called to the Better World. As a token of the church's regard 
for her deep interest in the work the bell purchased by the La- 
dies' Aid Society was made a memorial to her. She was a de- 
voted member of the German Lutheran Church, while her children 
were members of St. Mark's. 

The first services were held in the church on Christmas, 
1890. The dedication took place January 18, 1891, the sermon 
being preached by Rev. J. M. Steck. Revs. Irvine and Thrall 
assisted on the occasion. Rev. A. L. Yount performed the dedi- 
catory service. 

Now that the church was completed, it was desired that an or- 
ganization be effected. Up to this time there had been no de- 
cision made as to what Synod the congregation should unite 
with when organized. Those who had been especially interested 
in the building of the church, and had charge of the Sunday 
School, concluded that it would be best to unite with the Sus- 
quehanna Synod of the General Synod. The members of the 
Association, therefore, after consulting with those who had been 
most liberal in the effort to build, decided to unite with this body. 

After this decision had been reached Rev. J. M. Steck was 
invited to organize the congregation after consulting with Rev. 
Yount, as nearly all of those belonging to the Association were 
connected with the St. Mark's Church. His consent was re- 
ceived. Services were conducted for two weeks in the evening, 
in which assistance was rendered by other Lutheran pastors of 
the city and at the same time a canvass of the community was 
made. The organization was completed April 12, 1891. There 
were forty-two united at this time. Rev. I. Irvine assisted in the 
service. Rev. J. M. Steck was then chosen as a regular supply. 
An application was at once made to the Board of Home Mis- 
sions for aid, which was granted, and Rev. J. M. Steck was ap- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 257 

pointed Missionary beginning his work in that capacity July i, 
1891. 

This history so far has been taken from that written by Rev. 
Steck himself as the first pastor in which he says further : 
"Though few in number, and with little financial strength, yet 
as a band of workers in the church and Sunday School we never 
found any better in the years of our ministry." 

Since then the church has been growing steadily. They have- 
been self-supporting since May, 1903, and have purchased a 
property on which they have built a modern equipped parson- 
age. The church, to-day, has a confirmed membership of nearly 
three hundred and a Sunday School totaling in all departments, 
over four hundred. 

List of Pastors. 

Rev. J. M. Steck, 1891-1894 

Rev. G. F. Snyder, 1894-1899 

Rev. J. G. Griffith, 1899-1903 

Rev. J. F. Knittle, s 1903-191 1 

Rev. H. O. Reynolds 1912-1915 

Rev. J. E. Dale, I 9 I 5~ 



ST. MATTHEW'S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN' 
CHURCH, WILLIAMSPORT, PA. 

Rev. Morris F. Good, Pastor. 

St. Matthew's Church is located in that part of the city of 
Williamsport, west of Lycoming Creek, known as Newberry, the 
oldest section of the city. The congregation was organized on 
June 7th, 1891, in Wood's Hall, on Arch street, with eighteen 
charter members, by Rev. Isaac Irvine, then pastor of St. John's 
Lutheran Church of the city, and was served by him in connec- 
tion with his work in St. John's until October 21st of same year. 
On the latter date Rev. Leander Goetz assumed charge, for a 
time conducting worship once a Sunday for St. Matthew's and 
once a Sunday for St. Luke's Lutheran church at Vallamont. 
It is interesting to note that these two churches and the Lutheran 
Church of the East End of the city were formed about the same 
time. 

Luth. Synod — 17 



2S8 THE) SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

The work in St. Matthew's grew so fast that soon Rev. Goetz 
had to devote his entire time to this enterprise. On October 1st, 

1892, the lot (103x150) situated on the southwest corner of 
Lima and Pearl streets, on which the church and parsonage now 
stand, was purchased for $1,000, this probably being less than 
one-half of its present value. On July 16th, 1893, the corner- 
stone of the present building was laid. On November 12th, 

1893, the chapel was opened with appropriate services and sin- 
cere gratitude. The day chosen for the dedication of the com- 
pleted structure costing $6,000, was May 20th, 1894, but on ac- 




St. Matthew's Church and Parsonage, Williamsport 

-count of the memorable flood of that year, on this very day, these 
beautiful and inspiring services were postponed until August 
-26th of the same year, when with great rejoicing the church was 
•set apart for the use of divine service and worship of the Triune 
God. 

The first church council consisted of the following: Elders, 
Benneville Grimes, John Haag ; deacons, Thomas Sheidy, Henry 
Stahlnecker ; trustees, John Mertz, John Mosteller, all of whom 
•except the first two still living. 

A brief historical sketch written for the tenth anniversary of 
the congregation states that from the best record obtainable 
the Sunday School was organized July 26th, 1891, with John 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 259 

Mertz as the first superintendent. The Young People's Society 
was started in 1892, the Ladies' Aid Society in 1893, and the 
Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary Society in 1894. Of 
the eighteen charter members thirteen are living and eight of 
these are in good standing. 

An event that deserves special mention was the farewell ser- 
vice given on October 10th, 1894, in honor of Miss Jessie Brewer, 
who went out from this church as a missionary to India and for 
twenty years did most faithful and noble work for the Lord in 
that far-off, heathen country. At the present time Miss Brewer 
is in her native land engaged in the special work of Field Secre- 
tary under the auspices of the Board of Foreign Missions for or- 
ganizing of new Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary societies 
throughout the General Synod. 

At a congregational meeting held in the latter part of April, 
1901, it was decided with much satisfaction and enthusiasm that 
after the first of June of that year the congregation should be- 
come self-sustaining, by meeting its obligation to the Board of 
Church Extension. At the same time an encumbrance of $500 
on the parsonage which was erected at an original cost of about 
$2,000 was lifted to the encouragement of all friends and mem- 
bers of the church. 

In this year of our Lord 19 16 the twenty-fifth anniversary of 
the organization of St. [Matthew's, the confirmed membership 
has grown to nearly 400 (391), the Sunday School, including 
officers, teachers, Cradle Roll and Home Department, to 476, 
with Dr. A. Monroe Hall as the live and efficient superintend- 
ent, the Young People's to 98, including the Junior Society, the 
Ladies' Aid Society to 29 and the Woman's Home and Foreign 
Missionary Society to 30. Within recent years there has been 
organized and maintained a Brotherhood class in the Sunday 
School, having a membership of about 50. The entire church 
property, including a beautiful, modern parsonage, having an 
ideal location, is free of debt, estimated at a value of $15,000. The 
congregation is on a substantial basis in its financial activities, it 
being the rule absolutely followed out in recent years to far ex- 
ceed the apportionment for benevolences and meet all current 
expenses with a healthy margin from month to month. This is 
due in large part to an interest developing out of a normal spir- 
itual growth in grace. The Sunday School is among the best 



260 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

organized in the Synod, making its influence for good deeply- 
felt in the congregation and community among young and old. 
The other organizations are performing their parts well for 
Christ and His church. It must be said to the credit of those 
who directed the organization of this work that they did well, 
laying a solid foundation for a strong and flourishing church, so 
that it is now gradually becoming evident that the congregation 
is outgrowing its present quarters for worship and especially 
for its Sunday School work and, therefore, there is a strong and 
increasing sentiment in the congregation that there should be a 
more churchly edifice with better equipments for the different 
organizations. The congregation has been served by six pastors, 
as follows : 

Rev. Leander E. Goetz, from Oct. 21, 1891, to July 1, 1895. 

Rev. Sydney E. Bateman, from Oct. 18, 1895, to May 1, 1899. 

Rev. Foster U. Gift, from June 10, 1899, to April 10, 1904. 

Rev. Frederick W. Meyer from May 8, 1904, to Aug. 1, 1908. 

Rev. John W. Weeter, from Oct. 1, 1908, to Sept. 1, 1913. 

Rev. Morris F. Good, from Dec. 1, 1913, to present time. 



BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ORIGIN AND DEVELOP- 
MENT OF ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH 
OF WILL1AMSPORT, PENNSYLVANIA. 

By Rev. W. F. Rextz. 

In the lumber office of John A. Otto & Sons a small white build- 
ing at the foot of South Grier St., and now a part of the Rishel 
Furniture Company; for a long time prior to 1874, Howard Otto 
held meetings for the betterment of that locality. Portable seats 
were constructed. The people became very much interested. 

On October 25, 1874, in the afternoon they met in the same of- 
fice for the purpose of organizing a union Sabbath school. The 
school grew in such numbers that they were obliged to move into 
w T hat was then known as the Clay school building, on the corner of 
Vine and Rose Sts. Held the last session in this place Sept. 17, 
1882, after which the school was moved into the new chapel built 
on the corner of Rose St. and Erie Ave., on the site now occupied 
by the office of the present Lycoming Rubber Company plant. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



26l 



Later the Rubber company bought the ground and the chapel was 
moved to its present site on the corner of Grier St. and Erie Ave. 
St. John's Lutheran church was organized January 2, 1875, in 
the office of Mr. H. Howard Otto. While without a pastor, the 
members of the church conducted Sunday school and prayer 




St. John's Church, YYilliamsport 



Rev. YY. F. Rentz 



meetings and Revs. Winekoop, J. P. Xeft and ^eo. Eicholtz sup- 
plied them with preaching. In the trials incident upon the found- 
ing of the congregation, Elder Hiram kludge, a Presbyterian, 
rendered valuable and encouraging assistance. 

Rev. A. X. Warner was the first pastor of the congregation. 
Through his labors and influence St. John's and Messiah's congre- 
gations severed their connection with the Montoursville church 
and were organized into what was then called the Williamsport 
Mission, of which Rev. A. X. Warner became the missionary, 
During his ministry the chapel near the present Rubber Works 



262 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

was built. Brother Warner's health failed him and Rev. J. M. 
Steck, who organized St. John's, while pastor of the Jersey Shore 
Lutheran church, became pastor of St. John's and Messiah's on, 
the south side. In four years of faithful work, all debts were 
paid and the membership increased from twenty-two to one hun- 
dred and six. Directly after Rev. Steck resigned St. John's, the 
mission was divided and St. John's separated from Messiah and 
assumed self-support. 

Rev. Albert Bell was called and took charge Feb. 1, 1888. His 
faithful ministry closed at the. end of two years. From March 
until the 15th of June 1890, Rev. J. M. Steck served as supply. 

June 15, 1890, Rev. Isaiah Irvine became pastor. After a 
brief but successful ministry he died, May 7, 1893. 

Rev. C. C. Benson was elected pastor and took charge Au- 
gust 1, 1893. Brother Benson had a very successful pastorate 
and left a deep impression upon the church and community. 
While in the midst of his usefulness, he died, March 10, 1897. 
The chapel was removed from the corner of Rose St. and Erie 
Ave. to its present site during Brother Benson's pastorate. 

Rev. W. H. Harding took charge as pastor June 15th, 1897. 
Preached farewell sermon Oct. 15, 1899. The congregation and 
Sunday school both grew in interest and numbers during his 
ministry. 

Rev. L. L. Lohr began his ministry at St. John's Feb. 1, 1900. 
During his pastorate a fine parsonage was built costing- $4,500.00 
and a number of repairs made in the chapel. 

After the successful ministry of Brother Lohr, the present in- 
cumbent, Rev. W. F. Rentz, was elected pastor of St. John's and 
took charge Feb. 1, 1908. It was under his pastorate that the 
money was chiefly gathered for the erection of the new church. 
Monday evening, May 1, 1916, ground was broken for the new 
St. John's. Sunday, Aug. 6, 1916, the corner-stone was laid 
with interesting and appropriate services. Rev. F. P. Manhart, 
D. D., preached the sermon. He was assisted in the services by 
Rev. M. Hadwin Fischer and Rev. A. E. Renn, D. D., from 
Indianapolis, Ind. The corner-stone was laid by the pastor, Rev. 
W. F. Rentz. The attendance was large and the services im- 
pressive At present writing, Nov. 6, 1916, the new church 
building (i. e. the auditorium) is nearly under roof and it is 
expected to be ready for dedication on or before Easter, 1917. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



263 



Under the present pastor there have been 652 accessions and 212 
by infant baptism. The members of St. John's congregation 
should ever remember gratefully the self-sacrificing labors of the 
charter members of the church and other members of this house- 
hold of faith. The following were some of the original members 
of St. John's. Names so sacred and precious that they ought 
never to die out of the memories of those who worship in this 
holy place : 

Elias B. Folmer, 
W. J. Foster, 
S. A. Foster, 



M. L. Kline, 
Joel Kline, 
Andrew Myers, 
Hettie A. Meyers 
Hezekiah Conner 
Susan Conner, 



Margaret Marks, 
Mary A. Marks, 
Christian Rinehart, 



Erastus Wm. Ritter, Elizabeth A. Rinehart r 
Martha M. Ritter, Annie E. Rinehart, 
Archie McYaugh, William H. Rinehart. 
John Marks, 



These all but one (Miss Mary A. Marks) have gone to their 
rest and reward and their works will follow them. 

And now, beloved brethren of St. John's, those who are bear- 
ing the heat and burden of this work to-day. Suffer me to 
bring unto you this final word of exhortation : 

"Wherefore, my beloved Brethren, be ye steadfast, immovable, 
always abounding in the work of tlie'Lord. for as much as ye 
know, that your Labor is not in -rain in the Lord." — 1 Cor. xv : 58. 



BRIEF HISTORY OF ST. PAUL'S. 

YVILLIAMSPORT, PA. 

By Rev. C. G. Bikle. 

The early records of St. Paul's church are so confused that 
even the date of its organization are differently given in the 
histories of the congregation prepared by the last two pastors, 
but after consulting with the one who made the motion out of 
which grew the formation of the organization, we have decided 
that the date was April gth, 1871. About a month preceding this 
time a group of members of what was then called the First Lu- 
theran church and is now known as St. Mark's (General Council) 
dissatisfied with some methods that concerned particularly the 



264 



TH£ SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



Sunday school, decided to withdraw their membership and form a 
new congregation. The Academy of Music was secured for 
their services and the first sermon there was preached by the 
Rev. Joel Schwartz, D. D., of Carlisle, on March 12th. The 
offering on that first Sunday was twenty-six dollars. It was 
Easter Sunday morning of 1871 that the organization was con- 
summated through a motion made by J. C. Hill, Esq. The com- 
mittee to draft the Constitution consisted of S. E. Furst, J. C. 
Hill and A. J. Weise and at this meeting they presented it and 




St. Paul's Church, Williamsport 

it was adopted, giving the name "The Fourth Street Lutheran 
Church" to the new organization. There were sixty-four charter 
members, of whom eight are yet members of St. Paul's : Mr. 
and Mrs. G. W. Renninger, Mrs. A. H. Heilman, Mr. and Mrs. 
J. C. Hill, Mrs. Alary A. Hemperly, Dr. George W. Klump, H. 
Howard Otto. The following Sunday the first sermon was 
preached to the new congregation by the Rev. M. Rhodes, D. D. 
July 9th the Rev. Joel Schwartz was elected the first pastor, be- 
ginning his ministry on the 10th of Sept. Following. The six- 
teenth day of July the Sunday school was organized in the 
United States hotel, the sessions of the main school being held 
in the dining room and of the "infant" class on the back porch, 
when the weather permitted, and at other times in the kitchen 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 265 

of the old hotel. The hotel then stood where the First National 
bank building" now stands on West Third St. I. N. Kline was 
the first superintendent, the total number present at the first 
session being 50. Both the congregation and the school later 
-used the Academy of Music until 1873, when the chapel was 
built on William St. on a lot purchased for $6,000. About this 
time, the pulpit of the First Presbyterian church becoming va- 
cant an effort was made to unite these two congregations, but 
failed. The committee on the building of the new chapel con- 
sisted of J. B. Duble, J. C. Hill and James R. Wagner. The 
architect was A. S. Wagner. The history at this time shows 
that "the treasury was lamentably low in funds." June 4th, 1873, 
the new chapel was dedicated and the following month Dr. 
Schwartz resigned. He was, however, persuaded to* remain 
until the close of the year 1874. During 1875 s teps were taken 
to unite St. Mark's and the new church now known as St. Paul's, 
the name having been changed on A [ay 21, 1874. Just when this 
plan seemed to be succeeding, for some unrecorded reason it was 
suddenly given up. After much disappointment the congrega- 
tion finally called as pastor, the Rev. George Parsons, his pastor- 
ate, however, being of short duration, extending from October, 
1875, to December, 1876. At this time the congregation was in 
such a discouraged condition that it announced that it could pay 
only $800 salary when it had formerly paid $1,500. After serving 
a short time as supply the Rev. T. F. Reeser became pastor on 
December 23, 1877, continuing until May 1st, 1881. It was dur- 
ing Mr. Reeser's ministry that the Board of Church Extension 
loaned the congregation $2,000, laying some conditions on the 
congregation concerning other items of its indebtedness. At the 
conclusion of Mr. Reeser's pastorate the congregation was for 
the third time in its brief history left without the services of a 
pastor, supplies being obtained as often as possible. A new era 
of prosperity and progress came to the congregation with the 
securing of the Rev. S. P. Hughes as pastor. His ministry be- 
gan November 10th, 1881, continuing for ten years exactly, as 
long as the ministeries of all the previous pastors and closed for 
no manifest reason. Before his pastorate the congregation had 
twice planned to disband or be absorbed, ministers had refused to 
stay under the hard conditions, others had refused a call and 
the congregation was small and dispirited. When his pastor- 



266 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

ate came to a conclusion the change in conditions with the con- 
gregation was remarkable. Beside the rather inadequate chapel 
under his inspiring leadership an attractive and spacious auditor- 
ium was erected and in addition a chapel (St. Lukes) was erected 
as a mission in what is now Vallamont. The congregation had 
resumed its Lutheran bearing and was becoming a potent force 
in the life of the growing city as well as in the Symod of which it 
was now a part. A debt of nearly $9,000 at the close of his min- 
istry takes little from the credit of his fine services for conditions 
over which he had no control, including a disastrous flood, were 
largely responsible. At the conclusion of his services the Rev. 
J. M. Anspach, D. D., became the pastor and for twelve years 
(1892- 1 904) gave St. Paul's a fine ministry, by the year 1896 
clearing it of debt and each year adding to its membership and its 
worth. Dr. Anspach was a remarkably fine preacher and his 
memory is held sacred in the hearts of the older members who 
yet remain in St. Paul's. 

After being supplied a few months by the Rev. P. H. Mullen, 
the congregation called the present minister, the Rev. Charles 
George Bikle, as pastor, and in December, 1904, his services 
began. In 1905 the property occupied by St. Luke's as a mis- 
sion of St. Paul's was formally presented to that congregation. 
In 1908 the church was rededicated after improvements costing 
about $10,000 had been completed. Palm Sunday, April 9, 
191 1, at the Fortieth Anniversary of the organization of the 
church, forty new members were received and announcement 
made that $4,000- of the improvement fund had been pledged 
and when paid cleared the church from all indebtedness. At the 
present writing the church membership, which at the organization 
was 64, is 480' and the church has a high standing in the com- 
munity and synod of which it is a part. 



ST. LUKE'S 
Williamsport, Pa. 

By R3v. M. H. Fischer, Ph. D. 

St. Lukes is a daughter of St. Paul's. The fathers of this 
vigorous church saw the need of a church to minister to the 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



267 




u 



268 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

families moving- into the new section of the city called Yallamont. 
On August 31, 1890 the St. Paul's congregation resolved to build 
on lots secured at the corner of Brandon avenue and Elmira 
street. The matter was placed in the hands of a committee com- 
posed of Messrs. J. C. Hill, Esq., A. H. Heilman, W. C. Gilmore, 
Esq., H. P. Strvker and John M. Otto. The money spent on the 
lots and the building was $2,476.24. 

On May 17, 1891 a Sunday School was organized with Mr. 
A. H. Heilman as Superintendent. The school continued with 
varying success under different leaders until November, 1896. 
A new impetus was given the work on November the 8th when 
Rev. H. Q. Shadle, assistant pastor of St. Paul's began regular 
supply work with a view of organizing a congregation by the 
next Easter. But the work was hampered by the illness and 
death of Rev. Shadle in the early part of 1897. 

Though retarded the work went on and a little flock of thirteen 
was gathered by May of the same year. On the morning of May 
23 a constitution was adopted, with the following charter mem- 
bers : Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Harding, Mrs. M. J. Ernest, Lilian 
Frantz, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. J. Stoll, Mr. and Mrs. J. G. Mayer, 
Mr. and Mrs. H. S Homan, Mr. and Mrs. W, M. Irvin and 
Elizabeth Frantz. After a sermon preached by the Rev. J. M. 
Anspach, D. D., pastor of St. Paul's, an organization was effected 
by the election of the following officers : Elders, W. M. Irvin and 
Howard Homan; Deacons, J. G. Mayer and C. E. Harding; 
Trustees, H. S. Smale, James Smith and W. J. Stoll. They were 
promptly installed and steps were taken to interest the Home 
Mission Board of the General Synod in the undertaking. 

The chapel was dedicated at the morning service. May 30, 1897 
by the Rev. J. M. Steck, D. D. The sermon was preached from 
Ezra 6:16. The pulpit was supplied during June by the Rev. 
S. M. Mountz. 

In August 1897 the Rev. W. A. Trostle became pastor. He 
served until April 1, 1899. 

Rev. W. B. Lahr served the church from June 1, 1899 to 
February 28, 1900. 

Rev. S. P. Hughes served from May 7, 1900 until May, 1901, 
but through illness was unable to fill the pulpit after February. 

Rev. I. Hess Wagner was engaged as supply pastor in Feb- 
ruary, 1 901. So acceptable were his services that he was called 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 269 

to become the regular pastor on the death of Rev. Hughes. He 
continued to lead the congregation until February i, 1909. 
Several advanced steps were taken under his ministry. The 
congregation became self-supporting from May i, 1905. This 
step was fittingly celebrated with special services June 18, and 
19. At this time the St. Paul's congregation transferred the 
deeds for the property to the members of St. Lukes. This was 
matter of great encouragement to the young but growing organi- 
zation. They were incorporated by the courts September the 
4th, 1905, and having since continued a gradual but substantial 
growth. 

Rev. M. Hadwin Fischer, Ph. D., was called to St. Luke's and 
became pastor June 1, 1909. The Sunday School was reorganized 
and the attendance soon outgrew the capacity of the old chapel. 
At a congregational meeting February i, 1910 it was decided 
to erect a more commodious building and the following com- 
mittee was appointed : Adam Rothfuss, J. M. Winder, ] . E. 
Swarm, D. E. Sheef, J. E. Rothfuss and Rev. M. H. Fischer. 
Mr. Truman P. Reitmeyer was asked to prepare plans and early 
in April the contract was let to Mr. A. C. Everhart. The corner- 
stone was laid with fitting ceremony July 24, 19 10, by the Rev. 
J. H. Barb, D. D., President of the Susquehanna Synod, assisted 
by the local Lutheran pastors. 

The first service was held in the new church on the evening* 
of March 8. The sermon was preached by the Rev. Charles 
George Bikle, pastor of the mother church. Greetings were 
presented by the Rev. John W. Weeter, D. D., pastor of St. 
Matthews. On Thursday evening the vesper service was con- 
ducted by the Rev. W. F. Rentz, pastor of St. John's and the 
sermon was preached by the Rev. E. C. Armstrong, D. I)., who 
brought the greetings of the Williamsport Ministerial Associa- 
tion. The new pipe organ was formally opened by a concert 
given by Prof. E. E. Sheldon, assisted by Mrs. E. E. Sheldon. 
music teachers in Susquehanna University, and Miss Clara L. 
Snow, en Friday evening. On dedication day the sermon in 
the morning was preached by the Rev. R. G. Bannen, D. D., of 
Messiah's. At the evening service the vespers were led by the 
Rev. J. F. Knittle of the Church of the Redeemer and the sermon 
was preached and the dedication pronounced by the Rev. J. H. 
Barb, D. D., President of Synod 



2/0 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

After the dedication of the new church the old chapel was 
made into a modern parsonage. The contract was let to Mr. 
D. D. Mover in April and the building was formally opened with 
a congregational reception Nevember the 9th, 191 1. 

Through the interest of Mr. and Mrs. William Decker in 
work for boys and young men the basement of the church was 
equipped with gymnasium, reading rooms and game rooms. 
This part of the church has been regularly used several nights a 
week for boys' work from October to April. (From April to 
October provisions is made for tennis, base ball and other out-of- 
door sports.) The completion of the building enterprise was 
celebrated with a Men's banquet in the gymnasium January 18, 
1 91 2. The present property is valued at $27,900.00. 

During the last five years the church has grown into some- 
thing of a community center for the northern part of the city. 
The Sunday School is fully organized and has a Men's Class 
of over 70. All organized classes hold monthly meetings. The 
young people support Junior, Intermediate and Senior Chris- 
tion Endeavor Societies. The ladies have a live Ladies' Aid 
Society and a flourishing Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary 
Society. Under the Men's organization a male chorus and a 
live boy's work is maintained. They also have an organization 
for doing social work. Since February, 191 2 a modern kinder- 
garten has been conductd in the church under the direction of a 
board of lay directors and the pastor of the church. Miss Louise 
E. Rich is the efficient principal. She is provided with an able 
assistant. 

The congregation now numbers 295, and the annual receipts 
average $5,000.00. 



MESSIAH'S, SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT. 
Rev. R. G. Bannen, D. D., Pastor. 

In the summer of 1867 Rev. J. G. Griffith received a call from 
the Susquehanna Conference of the East Pennsylvania Synod at 
a salary of $300 to do missionary work in William sport and 
vicinity. About Aug. 1st of the same year he preached his first 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



271 




a 



2/2 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

sermon on the South Side, in the old brick school house to a 
little congregation of fifteen or twenty. He preached regularly 
at this point each Lord's day and during December held a series 
of meetings with some success. On Jan. 12, 1868, he organized 
Messiah's with a membership of the following ten persons : 
Jacob Weiss and Rosanna, his wife, H. D. Keyser and Sarah, 
his wife, J. B. McFadden and Elizabeth, his wife B. C. Longen 
and Alary, his wife, and John Reinhart and Christiana, his wife. 

In the spring the congregation determined to build and the 
following committee was appointed : Rev. Griffith, Jacob Weiss, 
John Rickard and Henry Lutcher. 

A lot was purchased for $600 and the first payment made by 
a loan from some of this committee, without interest, that the 
building might begin at once. The original plan of the building 
was one-story with tower. This was changed, however, after the 
work was started to the two-story building now used as an 
apartment house. 

The lecture room was dedicated Feb. 7, 1869, an d the pastor 
was assisted by Rev. H. Ziegler, D. D., of Selinsgrove, Pa., who 
preached the sermon. Rev. Griffith resigned March 1, 1873, hav- 
ing gathered a membership of 46. In April, 1873 Rev. I. P. NefT 
M. D., was given a joint call from the "Rocktown" and Mon- 
toursville congregations. 

The first year of his labors he had his residence among the 
people here and preached twice each Sabbath, alternating the 
morning and evening services between the two congregations. 

The next spring he took up his residence at Montoursville, but 
the order of services was continued as above. Special revival 
services were held during the winter of Rev. NefFs pastorate 
and 47 accessions were made to Messiah's membership. Up to 
his time only the lecture room of the church had been finished 
and dedicated, but in 1876 the main audience room was com- 
pleted. While the work of finishing the building was going 
on a committee of faithful women were busy securing money 
for the furnishings. Of this committee Airs. Wilbur and Mrs. 
Macintosh are still with us. The auditorium was dedicated 
May 7th. Rev. W. W. Criley perached the sermon and assisted 
the pastor. The remaining indebtedness of $800 was all pro- 
vided for by cash and subscriptions. This was a bright day for 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN' CHURCH 



2/3 



Messiah and pleasantly remembered by some who still worship 
within her walls. 

On March 15th, 1880, Rev. A. N. Warner accepted a call to the 
"Montourville Charge," consisting then of Montoursville, South 
Williamsport, Union School House and St. John's Mission of 
Williamsport. The salary was fixed at $500 and some were in 
doubt as to whether this sum could be raised by the combined 
efforts of the four congregations. He preached at Montours- 
ville every Sabbath and for the other congregations every two 




Messiah's Parsonage. South Williamsport 



weeks. Some of the people of the South Side became dis- 
couraged and at one of their council meetings proposed to disband 
and attend services in the city. To this Rev. Warner earnestly 
objected. The rolling mill was assuming operations. The foun- 
dation for the nail factory was just being laid, many of the 
people were beginning to buy lots and build homes. These ele- 
ments of prosperity brought new encouragement. Much of the 
pastor's time was spent in building a house of worship for St. 
John's congregation. In June 1882 they carried a request to 
Synod that they be permitted to sever their relations with Mon- 
toursville, and St. John's and Messiah became a separate charge. 
Rev. W r arner remained with them as pastor at a salary of $720, 

Luth. Synod— IS 



2/4 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

part of which was paid by the Home Mission Board. During 
the winter both churches enjoyed a precious season of revival 
and the membership and interest were greatly strengthened. He 
resigned on July 1st, 1883, on account of throat trouble, and 
Rev: J. M. Steck was chosen his successor. He assumed charge 
on Sept. 1, 1883, with a membership in the church of 40 and 
about 75 in the Sunday School. The report of the Mission 
at the close of the first year's labors showed an increase in the 
membership of both churches. Messiah's now numbering 80 and 
the Sunday School almost doubled. The most pleasant relations 
between pastor and people existed and the church and Sunday 
School continued to grow. Special services were held each 
winter, followed by catechetical instructions, resulting in much 
good. The debt on the old church was paid and the congrega- 
tion was beginning to realize that a new church would soon be 
necessary. Through the wisdom of Rev. Steck lots were se- 
cured and plans for a new building were considered? The foun- 
dation walls were completed, when at the close of the fourth 
year's labor the health of the pastor was such that he felt unable 
to perform the work of the Mission and tendered his resigna- 
tion. Following this a meeting of the joint council was called 
to consider the advisability of dividing the mission and Mes- 
siah's became a separate charge. 

A call was extended to Rev. W. G. Thrall, who entered upon 
his work Dec. 1, 1887. The new pastor was kept busy securing 
funds and looking after the new building. The corner-stone was 
laid June 24, 1888, but the work was delayed and made more 
difficult by the disastrous "flood of 89." However, on Aug. 4th, 
the Sunday School met at the old church and lead by the pastor 
and superintendent, marched in glad procession to the beautiful 
chapel of the new edifice. Addresses were made by Revs. Yount 
and Hughes of the city and Dr. Born, of Selinsgrove. 

The entire building was completed and dedicated on June 15, 
1890. Rev. Menges, of Philadelphia, preached in the morning 
and Rev Stublebin, of Lawyersville, N. Y., in the evening. The 
consecration service was conducted by the pastor. 

Rev. Thrall resigned in the fall of 1891, leaving a member- 
ship of 219 and the beautiful new church as a lasting monument 
to his untiring labors. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 275 

Rev. R. G. Bannen, the present pastor, entered upon his work 
Nov. 1st, 1 891. The church debt was paid. The Sunday School 
room was remodeled. A lot was purchased and a fine modern 
parsonage was erected. An excellent pipe organ and steam 
heating plant were installed in the church and the last improve- 
ment was the new Sunday School edition, including a beautiful 
children's chapel for the use of the primary department. The 
large art glass window of the Good Shepherd is dedicated to 
the children by Mr. W. D. Crooks, who for thirty-five years was 
the faithful superintendent. 

In the twenty-five years the congregationhas never failed to 
raise its full apportionment and has averaged for benevolence 
more than a thousand dollars annually. During the present pas- 
torate -,144 persons have been received into the church, which, 
after deducting the losses, leaves the present membership 725. 

Rev. Bannen is the only surviving pastor who has served the 
congregation and Messiah's is the only charge he has ever served. 
At the recent celebration of their twenty-fifth anniversary the 
people presented their pastor with a fine new Reo automobile, 
as a token of their esteem. 



THE AVHITE DEER VALLEY CHARGE. 
Rkv. S. F. Tholan, Pastor. 

The White Deer Valley Charge is composed of three churches, 
Christ's, near Montgomery ; Zion's, near Elimsport, and Messiah's, 
Alvira, Pa. 

Christ's church, perhaps better known as the "Stone," had its 
beginning in the old log church which stood somewhere in the 
cemetery and belonged to the Presbyterian congregation. This 
log church was built some time between 1787 and 1790, the exact 
date is unknown. It was the only church in White Deer or Black 
Hole Valley for years. No one seems to know just when the 
first Lutheran congregation was organized. The Lutheran and 
Reformed congregations came into existence about the same 
time and both worshiped in this same building for many years, 
until in the year of 1845 the old lo & church was turned over to 



2/6 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

these congregations. Two years later Christ's (Stone) church 
was begun. The corner-stone was laid about September 21, 1847. 
This we have because of the splendid memory of things pertain- 
ing to these times, of Robert Shaffer, who recently has gone to 
his Heavenly home. A builder by the name of Yost built the 
church at or about the same time he was building the Messiah 
church at Alvira. Some of the building material of the old log- 
church was used in building the new one. It was built of stone 
on a plot of ground about a 100 yards directly northwest of the 
old site, and was not completed until the latter part of the sum- 
mer of 1848. 

The exact date of dedication I am unable to procure. It was 
erected and held jointly and also dedicated by the Lutheran and 
Reformed congregations, Dr. George Parson (Lutheran) and 
Rev. Weichand (Reformed) were in charge of the dedicatory 
services. In this structure the two congregations continued to 
worship until the Reformed organization disbanded. 

At first the singing was led by a chorister or (fore singer). 
When the pulpit was placed at the opposite end of the room a 
choir was installed, having its place between the doors where the 
pulpit was. This choir was famed through the valley and was a 
factor in the remarkable success of the old Stone church. 

Over fifty years it stood a land-mark of this valley, and from 
its beginning till 1878 was a part of the Muncy charge, when 
Rev. Flickinger was pastor. This building had served its day. 
In the year of 1906 it was torn down to make room for the pres- 
ent structure now standing on the same site. The new Christ's 
church is built of cement blocks and was erected in 1906 and 
1907. The stone of the old building were crushed and placed 
in the concrete of the new. It is a beautiful church edifice, modern 
in all its arrangements, and one of the most handsome of rural 
church buildings, as considered by many, in Lycoming and other 
counties. It stands a monument to the enterprise and devotion to 
the good people of Christ's congregation and is a credit to the 
community. The corner-stone of this structure was laid July 29, 
1906. The service on this occasion was held in the adjoining 
grove, the officiating clergymen were Rev. J. H. McGann, D. D., 
president of the Susquehanna Synod; Rev. J. M. Reminsnyder, of 
Milton, and Rev. A. E. Cooper. The church was not completed 
until late in the fall and was dedicated December 15, 1907, Dr. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 277 

AlcGann preaching the dedicatory sermon. It cost about $12,- 
000, all of which was paid or subscribed on the clay of dedication. 
It was built without a basement, later this addition was consid- 
ered necessary and the work of excavating was begun September 
1913 and was completed and furnished January, 1914, at a cost 
of $1,300. 

The pastoral succession as nearly as can be ascertained I give 
below : 

Rev. George Parsons, D. D., 1844-1850 

Rev. H. Ziegler, D. D., 1850-1853 

Rev. Philip Scheeder, 1853-1856 

Rev. D. S. Truckamiller, 1859-1861 

Rev. J. W. Schwartz, D. D., . 1862-1863 

Rev. A. W. Lentz, 1863-1874 

Rev. I. A. Flickinger, [874-1878 

Rev. A. W. Lentz, 1878-1881 

Rev. H. A. Deitterich, 1881-1887 

Rev. G. W. Stroup 1 887-1891 

Rev. R. F. Fetterolf 1892-1896 

Rev. A. R. Glaze, 1896-1899 

Rev. A. E. Cooper, 1899-1906 

Rev. J. A. Richter, [907-1910 

Rev. S. F. Tholan 1910- 



ZION'S CHURCH. 

This church grew out of a protracted meeting held in the Stone 
church in the years of 1844 to 1847 DY ^- ev - George Parsons, 
D. D., then pastor of the Muncy charge, comprised of the Muncy 
church, St. John's of Black Hole, and Christ's church, of White 
Deer valley and was assisted by Rev. Weichend, of the Re- 
formed congregations of Black Hole and White Deer Valley. 
The records of this congregation are very incomplete. For some 
of the history of the first building and congregation we are in- 
debted to Mr. B. F. Gordner, who was confirmed in the old 
church nearly 60 years ago. 

Daniel Bair, who owned the farm now owned by B. F. Gord- 



2 7 8 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



tier, gave the ground for the church and cemetery. Upon this 
ground a frame structure was erected. Mrs. Daniel Bair, who 
was taken seriously ill and died before the church was com- 
pleted, was the first to be buried in this cemetery just given by 
her husband. For a time the Reformed brethren were given per- 
mission to worship in this church. The exact date of organiza- 
tion is not known, the dedication was, however, sometime in the 




Messiah's Church, Alvira, Pa. 



year of 1847 an d became an integral part of the Muncy charge 
until the charge was divided in 1878, when the Christ's church and 
Zion's formed what is now known as the White Deer Valley 
charge, and Rev. Flickinger was the first pastor of this new 
charge. 

In 1892 the lightning struck in the cupola and this old frame 
structure was destroyed by fire. Some of the records also were 
destroyed, which is the cause of indefiniteness. Many people were 
disheartened when they saw their Zion in ashes and thought it 
could never be rebuilt. But wiih united efforts and generosity 
they finally accomplished what seemed almost impossible. The 
church is frame. The auditorium is 45x50 and cost about $4,000. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 2/9 

It is a cozy and comfortable church and is a credit to the people. 
It was dedicated in December. 1893, with appropriate services 
in the presence of a large concourse of people. Rev. R. F. Fet- 
terolf was then pastor, who was assisted in the service by Rev. 
J. M. Reimensnyder. D. D., of Milton, preaching the dedication 
sermon. 

"While Rev. A. E. Cooper was pastor a cellar was excavated 
from under a part of the building and a heater placed therein, 
which was finished and cemented during Rev. Tholan's time and 
a new heater installed December 1914. A new Yocalion organ and 
a new lighting system were installed in the spring of 1912. The 
lights costing Si 38.00 and the organ S400.00. 

By action of Synod the Muncy charge, composed of Muncy 
church. St. John's Black Hole Valley. Christ's and Zion's, as this 
valley was divided in 1878. Christ's and Zion assuming the re- 
sponsibility of supporting a pastor of their own. When the new 
charge was formed a new parsonage was needed. 

In 1880 during Rev. A. W. Lentz's second pastorate, work 
was commenced and soon the house was finished at a cost of 
82,500. It is a neat, modern well arranged building and makes a 
desirable preacher's home. Each congregation holds a half in- 
terest. Messiah,, a later addition to the charge, has no interest 
in it other than its upkeep. 



MESSIAH CHURCH. ALVIRA. PA. 

Messiah's church. Alvira. is probably the oldest congregation 
of the charge, according to records in the hands of the pastor. 
The first minute written is dated May 30. 1848. at which time 
the following resolutions were unanimously adopted: 

"Resolved. That in humble reliance on Almighty God we now 
organize ourselves into a Lutheran congregation by the election 
of two trustees, two deacons and two elders. That whereas we 
have already purchased ground for the erection of a church and a 
place to bury our dead, and whereas we see so many of our Ger- 
man brethren without a spiritual guide who belong to no church, 
we will earnestly invite them to join in with us so that we may 
call a minister who will break to us the bread of life." 



280 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 




tt 



U 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 28l 

Henry Boyer and Peter Ludwig were elected elders ; Jacob 
Heffner and David Strohecker, deacons ; Joseph Deitrick and 
Peter Ludwig, trustees. Rev. S. R. Boyer, pastor at McEwens- 
ville, was invited to preach a trial sermon. On June 10, 1846, 
Rev. Boyer preached, and on August 1 was elected to become 
pastor, taking charge soon after. The congregation evidently 
worshipped in a private home for the first half year of its exist- 
ence. At a congregational meeting July 6, 1848, it was decided 
to erect a frame building 45x55 on the ground previously pur- 
chased. This was a General Council church and belonged to the 
Minister ium of Pennsylvania. The corner-stone was laid June 6, 
1848, by Rev. Boyer, assisted by Rev. J. G. Anspach, pastor of 
this Evangelical Lutheran church of Mifflinburg, Pa. The fol- 
lowing proclamation was placed into the corner-stone: "This is 
to proclaim that the corner-stone of Messiah's church was laid 
on the sixth day of June, 1848, in Washington township, Lycom- 
ing county, Pa. 

James K. Polk, president of the United States ; George M. 
Dallas, vice president; Francis R. Shunk, Governor of Pennsyl- 
vania. On May 28th, 1849, this house of God having been cm- 
pleted was dedicated to Almighty God as an Evangelical Lutheran 
church with the particular name Messiah's church. The pastors 
who officiated on this occasion were Rev. R. J. Albert, pastor of 
the Lutheran church of Bellefonte. Rev. J. Kohler, pastor of the 
Lutheran church of Wiliamsport, Pa., and the Rev. S. R. Boyer. 

It was near this time, before or after, when arrangements were 
made with the members of the Reformed church by which they 
were given privilege of worshipping in Messiah's church. The 
two congregations have continued to worship here ever since. 

The following pastors served these people while they were con- 
nected with the Ministerium of Pennsylvania ; Rev. S. R. Boyer 
remained pastor till 1859. Rev. Jacob Albert, the father of Rev. 
Chas. S. Albert, D. D., who was for 19 years the efficient editor 
of the Augsburg Teacher and Lesson Books, then became pastor 
and served the congregation till 1866. 

Rev. T. C. Billheimer, D. D., who was up to a short time ago, 
professor of Hebrew at Gettysburg Theological Seminary, was 
then supply pastor for a few months, beginning May 10, 1867. 
Rev. Keller was then called and remained to break the bread of 
life to these people till 1870. Keller and Evans, the Reformed 



282 THE SUSQUEHANNA 



SYXOD 



pastor, held a union communion on Sunday, December 5, 1868. 

After Mr. Keller's time there was no Lutheran pastor, accord- 
ing to the church book, until 1879, when Rev. J. W. Early became 
pastor and served the congregation for several vears. 

From this time the records are very unsatisfactory. Informa- 
tion comes to us that during these years of indefmiteness Rev. H. 
P. Phleuger, Rev. M. C. Horine. Rev. S. Henry and Rev. W. H. 
Rickert served the good people of this church. 

For a number of years the Lutherans had no regular services. 
It was the only General Council church for miles. It at one time 
formed a part of the Turbotville pastorate, a distance of ten 
miles for the pastor to drive. 

Its membership was continually growing weaker until finally 
this point was dropped from the charge and left without a shep- 
herd. 

In 1892, when Rev. R. F. Fetterolf became pastor of the 
White Deer Valley charge, he began looking up the Lutherans 
of that vicinity and found a number of families with children 
not attending services anywhere, yet were willing to help sup- 
port a Lutheran minister. Steps at once were taken by these peo- 
ple to organize and seek admission into the Susquehanna Synod. 
At a meeting called for the purpose, it was decided to withdraw 
from the Ministerium of Pennsylvania, and make overtures to the 
Susquehanna Synod held at Northumberland, Pennsylvania, peti- 
tioning Synod to receive them as an integral part of the White 
Deer Valley charge, which was officially enacted. From this time 
the congregation has been served regularly by the following pas- 
tors : 

R. F. Fetterolf, 1892-1896 

A. R. Glaze, 1896-1899 

A. E. Cooper, 1899-1906 

J. A. Richter, 1907-1910 

S. F. Tholan, the present pastor, since December 1, 1910. 

Some vears ago a difference arose between the two congre- 
gation and the corner-stone was broken open and robbed by some 
malicious person. To the Lutherans this remains a mystery to this 
day. The Lutherans during the pastorate of Rev. S. F. Tholan, 
sometime in 191 2, proposed to buy the interest of the Reformed 



OF THE EVANGELICAL EUTHERAX CHURCH 283 

or sell to them, but they would do neither. The two congregations 
then dissolved partnership and became independent. The Luth- 
erans electing their own Secretary and Treasurer and at the same 
time organized an independent Sunday school, still holding to the 
old building. Messiah, which is an old landmark, was several 
times renovated and improved. During the summer of 1914 it 
was painted and papered on the inside, the Ladies' Aid of the 
Lutheran element bearing entire expenses, which was about 
$400.00. 



ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, DELAWARE TWP, 
NORTHUMBERLAND CO., PA. 

Rev. M. S. Kemp, Litt. D. 

The earliest record of Lutherans in St. John's parish dates 
back to March 17th, 1737, when Conrad Weiser, another Ger- 
man, and three Indians, on a mission to Onandago from Gov- 
ernor Gooch, of Virginia, and the Pennsylvania authorities, 
paused within the shadow of the great pines of Delaware Run. 
Permanent settlers, however, did not arrive until the closing de- 
cade of the eighteenth and the opening decade of the nineteenth 
centuries. These came largely from Northampton, Berks and 
Montgomery counties. In their great high white-topped blue- 
panelled Conestoga wagons they treked through the passes of the 
Blue Ridge, or followed the windings of the Susquehanna, at- 
tended by their families and their household effects, and located in 
what was then a wilderness with no roads but Indian trails. An- 
drew Shaffer and Magdalena Garnhart, his wife, came in 1795. 
Jacob Garnhart came in 1797., while his father, Henry, came a 
few years later, locating in 1804 on the farm at Springtown. 
Peter Fogelman came in 1802-03. Stephen Nicely, Abraham 
Sterner, Jacob Doebler, John Eyster, Andreas Hartranft, Valen- 
tine Bieber, George Hoffman, Daniel Fulmer, Heinrich Lantz, 
Solomon Menges and many others were settled permanently by 
the year 1814. 

The exact date of the organization of a congregation is 
shrouded in the oblivion of the past. Probably as early as 1807 
worship was held in the barns and under the great pines near the 



1284 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

present site of St. John's church. Tradition states that "for many 
years previous to a church building services were held." It is not 
improbable that an organized congregation existed at St. John's 
as early as 1810. The earliest record of a church building is 
found in the receipts of Mr. Abraham Sterner and is as follows : 

"Received on the 17th of November, 18 15, for the year 181 6, 
from Abraham Starrier, for sexton six dollars, for boards and 
shingles two and a-quarter (und fur schloss em dollar fur die 
kirche zu macheri) and one dollar for a lock to fasten. the church 
door. Peter Culp." 

Other receipts dating 1818 and 1819 show that work on the 
church was continued for several years. Perhaps, as in many 
cases worship was held in the building before the roof was fin- 
ished. Tradition states that in its building each family having 
timber furnished as many logs as would go once around the edi- 
fice. 

The land, one hundred and fifty-nine perches, was given by 
Daniel Fulmer, but was not recorded until 1826, three years after 
the testator's death. 

This old church building was erected a little to the north and 
east of the present structure and faced the public road. The ex- 
terior was plastered and pebble-dashed. A log steps and porch 
gave approach to the double doors, which opened under the east 
gallery. A smaller door on the south gave entrance under the 
south gallery. The two aisles from these doors intersected before, 
the old fashioned wine-glass pulpit. The benches or pews were 
unpainted and straight backed, the rear ones in the galleries being- 
raised to give better vision. 

Here the Lutheran and Reformed settlers of the Muncy hills 
and of all the territory southward to Warrior Run met and wor- 
shipped, in the early days. The. ritual was simple. No organ 
ever was used in the place and probably no artificial lights. The 
church officers sat 'neath the pulpit at the north ; the men and 
Tdovs, north of the main aisle ; the women and girls, south of the 
main aisle. 

The records of those days are very fragmentary. The first 
are financial statements of the church deacons, the earliest of 
which reads August 4th, 1821. The first church officers were 
<acob Doebler, Abraham Sterner, Solomon Menges, John Eys- 
ter and Peter Fogelman. The first baptism recorded is that of 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



28S 




286 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



Abraham Sterner, Jr., May ist, 1825, by Herr Jacob Repass, Lu- 
theran preacher. The first communion record is dated June 7th, 
1829, when thirty-five communed and twenty more were confirmed. 
The following appear as members on the above date : 



Johannes Nicely, 
Esther Dentler, 
Elizabeth Karschner, 
Gus Walter, 
Peter Fogelman, 
Sue Eister, 
Johan Barto, 
Johan Fogelman, 
Johan Wertman, 
Elizabeth Janer, 
Benjamin Eyster, 
Stephen Nicely, 
Joseph Nicely, 
Frau Rebecca, 
Daniel Eyster, 
Sarah Eyster, 
Valentine Bieber, 
Andrew Hartranfft, 
Frau Martha, 
Jacob Doebler, 
Frau Susanna, 
Jacob Peiffer, 
George Hoffman, 
Catherine Hoffman, 
Frau Nicely, 



Anna Nicely, 
Maria Wentzel, 
Johan Eister, 
Julia Nicely, 
Balzer Garnhart, 
Laudenschlager, 
Maria Fogelman, 
Lewis Rice, 
Elizabeth Updegras, 
Johan Shutz, 
Solomon Menges, 
Abraham Sterner, 
Jacob Seiss, 
Frau Elizabeth, 
George Mosteller, 
Frau Susan, 
Conrad Hagenbuch, 
Phineas Hagenbuch, 
Christine Moll, 
John Wertman, 
Frau Eliza, 
Reuben Stewart, 
Maria Moorehead, 
Jacob Morehead, 
Elizabeth Garnhart, 



Delia Zarbecker, 
George Ritter, 
Frau Eister, 
Elizabeth Eister, 
Johan Sterner, 
Catherin Fogelman, 
Elizabeth Fogelman, 
Frau Catherina Rice, 
Jacob Lilly, 
Frau Wagner, 
Frau Menges, 
Barbara Garnhart, 
Adam Gundy, 
Amos Fox, 
Frau Anna, 
Jacob Shirtz, 
Magdelene Shirtz, 
Eliz. Linn, 
Maria Williams, 
A. Sheddy, 
John Gernhart, 
Louisa Gernhart, 
Joseph Eyster, 
Christian Gosh, 
Marg. Gosh. 



Thus they had a Lutheran membership of some eighty souls 
in 1829. It is a pity that no charter member roll exists. Most 
prominent among the charter members, no doubt, were Jacob 
Doebler, Solomon Menges, Abraham Sterner, John Eyster, Peter 
Fogelman, Stephen Nicely, George Hoffman, Heinrich Garnhart, 
Valentine Bieber, Andreas Hartranft and their wives. The first 
written constitution was in 1835 and consisted of twenty-three 
articles. The first pastor was Rev. Ferd. Engel, 1815-17, residing 
below Milton. Rev. Jacob Repass, of Milton, was pastor in 1825. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 287 

He was followed by Rev. Tared Sheetz, 182S-; Rev. Fred Woake 
or Waage 1829, Rev. Wm. German 1830, and Rev C. P. Miller 
1 83 1 came also from Milton. These pastors served Milton, Para- 
dise, Turbotville, Washingtonville, McEwensville, and White 
Deer and other points. With the coming of the Rev. Charles 
Stoever, 1836, a parsonage was erected in McEwensville and the 
charge consisted of Washingtonville, Turbotville, McEwensville, 
St. John's and White Deer and possibly Paradise. 

There appears to have been dissension between leading mem- 
bers of the church at this time. What it was is not apparent — 
perhaps a personal misunderstanding. It required the presence 
of Rev. J. P. Shindel, of Sunbury, at that time president of the 
Susquehanna Conference of the East Pennsylvania Synod, to 
settle the difficulty. There was mutual agreement to forget the 
past and treat each other as brothers. 

The longest pastorate of the congregation was that of Rev. 
S. P. Boyer, 1846-59. Pastor Boyer was an active man, and 
the church roll speedily climbed from seventy-five to one hundred 
and fourteen souls. The sincerity of Rev. Boyer shows forth in 
his church records. Ambitious, choleric in temperament he was 
a man of power in his time. lie was courageous and never 
wanted his cloth to protect him. At one time he flung off his 
coat in presence of an opponent with "Da ist der Prediger ; hier 
ist der Boyer.'' He was a member of the Ministerium of Penn- 
sylvania, what we would call now "Old School." He was also 
a member of the General Synod when the Ministerium connected 
itself with that body in the fifties. In a resolution passed in 
1856 we find the following: 

"We cordially adopt the formula for the government of our 
church as published by the General Synod of the Evangelical 
Lutheran Church." 

Yet the church's relationship to the General Synod depended 
upon the Ministerium's relationship as is evident from the follow- 
ing resolution of the same date : 

"No minister shall ever be elected or received as pastor of this 
congregation who is not in regular standing with some Evangeli- 
cal Lutheran Synod in these United States ; and the minister who 
has charge of this church must always be a member, in good and 
regular standing of* the Evangelical Lutheran Synod and Min- 
isterium of Pennsylvania and conduct worship according to the 



288 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

direction of that venerable body." No "New Measures" ever 
had any sway in the old St. John's Gemeinde. 

At the opening of Rev. Boyer's pastorate the charge included 
Washingtonville, Paradise, Turbutville, McEwensville, St. John's, 
and White Deer Valley with the parsonage at McEwensville; 
at the close, the parsonage was removed to Turbutville and 
Washingtonville, Turbutville, St. John's and White Deer formed 
one charge — while Mc/Ewensville, St. James-Turbutville, and 
Paradise and Follmer Churches formed a new charge. The 
change w r as due to the desire for a new church at Turbutville. 
Some one hundred and twenty-six members of the Lutheran 
congregation at the latter place with the pastor desired a new 
church of their own ; a similar number desired a new union 
church. Both sides built churches. The new union church 
however mysteriously caught fire when finished and burned to 
the ground. There was much hard feeling at the time and 
vague suspicion which happily have been buried in oblivion. 

The successor of Rev. Boyer was Rev. John Jacob Albert who 
served from 1859 to 1867. His memory is still precious to many 
souls. At the close of his pastorate St. John's determined to 
erect a new church. Though Father Albert resigned in the 
spring of '67 and retired from the active ministry at Turbutville 
he assisted in both the laying of the corner-stone and the dedica- 
tion services. The former was in April 27th, 1867 — tne latter 
in late fall of the same year. Mr. Joseph Graven of the Reformed 
congregation gave for the sum of one dollar some additional 
ground. The contract price was three thousand, one hundred 
and fifty dollars — the congregation to furnish the brick and 
and stone. The brick was burned at the kiln of Robert Albert. 
Judge Joseph Xicely and Samuel Garnhart of the Lutheran and 
William Transue and Joseph Graven of the Reformed congrega- 
tion were the building committee. John Beaver was the contractor. 
The dedication sermon was preached by the new pastor of St. 
James, Turbutville, Rev. (Dr.) E. J. Wolfe. The resignation of 
Father Albert was no doubt due to the preaching of English 
which the other churches of the charge strongly objected to in 
their love for the German patois. He was the first pastor to in- 
troduce the English language in the service, no doubt feeling its 
necessity. Because of this also at his resignation, St. John's 
church disconnected itself from Turbutville and united with the 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 289 

new church at Watsontown in the pastorate of Rev. (Dr.) T. 
Billheimer, 1867-68. The pastors from that date to the present 
time were the same as those at Watsontown. 

The church was improved in the pastorate of Rev. H. D. 
Shimer. New pews, a new chandelier, were placed in the build- 
ing and the walls and ceiling beautifully frescoed at a cost of 
several hundreds of dollars. During the pastorate of the present 
pastor, Rev. M, Stanley Kemp, Litt. D., a new organ was pur- 
chased for the church, a new railing placed around the choir, a 
new hymn board put in position, and a set of fine art glass 
windows placed in the walls — all the work of the Lutheran 
Ladies' Aid Society. The grounds also have been graded and 
fifty dollars worth of new Lutheran hymnals placed in the 
church by Miss Mabel Xichols' Sunday School class. From its 
organization a small Reformed congregation has worshipped 
in the building. The present Lutheran membership is nearly 
one hundred and fifty. 

The Centennial of the church was celebrated from June 14 
to June 18, 191 6, when nearly one thousand people attended. 
Many of the former pastors assisted in the services. 



FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH, WATSONTOWN, PA. 
Rev. M. S. Kemp, Litt. D. 

Previous to 1866 the Lutherans of Watsontown were connected 
with the St. John's Lutheran Church of Delaware Run and the 
McEwensville and Turbutville Lutheran Churches. Services had 
however been held in the old Academy building for some years 
previous by Rev. John Jacob Albert of Turbutville and Rev. 
George Parsons of Milton. With the growth of the town the 
sentiment for a church increased. The organization was affected 
in the early spring of 1866 when the following became charter 
members : 

Zachanas Yeagle Rachel Kramer 

Matilda Yeagle F. S. Witman 

Eliza Peterman Rebecca Witman 

Daniel Marsh Abby Arnild 

Luth. Svnod — 19 



290 THE) SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Eliza Marsh Rosanna Ott 

A. T. Goodman Emeline Krack (St. John's) 

Joshua Cole A. B. Latshaw 

David Kline (St. John's) Rebecca Latshaw 

Peter Heims H. K. Witman 

Gabriel Kline (St. John's) Noah Ware 

Jonathan Kramer Silas Rumbach (St. John's) 

Mary Kramer J. W. Rumbach ( St. John's) 

Samuel Witman Samuel Miller (St. John's 

Hannah Witman Emeline Miller (St. John's) 

Joseph Witman Barbara Miller (St. John's) 

Frederica Witman Amanda Miller (St. John's) 

Fred Heilman (Muncy Brick Ch.) Christian Gosh (St. John's) 

Christiana Heilman (Mcy Brick Ch.) Mary Gosh (St. John's) 

Margaret Moll (St. John's) J. D. Gosh (St. John's) 

Sarah Wagner (St. John's) Ellen Harley (St. John's) 

Caroline Aman Philip Wintersteen 

Mary A. Kline (St. John's) Christiana Wintersteen 

Daniel Kramer Kate Bower. 

The first church council was composed of Christian Gosh, Silas 
Rombach, Abram Goodman, Samuel Miller, Samuel Witman and 
A. B. Latshaw. 

In February a committee had been appointed consisting of 
W. H. Follmer, Peter Schaffer, Silas Rumbach, E. Everett and 
Philip Wintersteen to solicit funds for a Union Church. By 
March 21st three thousand four hundred and sixty-seven dollars 
and a-half had been subscribed. Encouraged by the result two 
lots on the corner of Maine and Fourth streets were purchased,* 
froim A. Pardee for the sum of five hundred dollars and work 
began upon the foundations. The building was to be a two^ 
story brick church, fifty by thirty-six feet, and was to be the 
property jointly of the St. Bartholomew's Evangelical Lutheran 
and Reformed Congregations of Watsontown. By the agree- 
ment signed July 14th, 1866, by the trustees, each congregation 
was to have the use of the building every alternate week from 
Wednesday morning to Wednesday .morning. The corner-stone 
was laid July 15th, 1866 with appropriate services by Rev. John 
Jacob Albert. Building operations continued throughout the 
year. The dedication services were held the following spring, 



01- THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



2QI 



May 12th, 1867. Rev. George Parsons, Milton, and Rev. Joshua 
Evans, Lewisburg, officiating, both were Lutherans. 

The first recorded communion service was held May 26th, 
1867. There was no pastor at this time and this service was 



1 




■"■.':' V; H 


* t ; 







First Church, Watsontown 



held most probably by Rev. John Jacob Albert or Rev. George 
Parsons. On November 1st of this year the Rev. (Dr.) T. C. 
Billheimer of the Seminary at Gettysburg became the first pastor. 
St. Bartholomew's Church was the first church edifice in Wat- 
sontown and Rev. Billheimer the first resident pastor. Rev. 



2Q2 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

J. B. Keller succeeded Rev. Billheimer in 1869 serving nearly 
two years and was succeeded by the Rev. P. S. Mack who served 
from July 1st, 1871 to July 1st, 1873. It was during this latter 
pastorate the first constitution was drawn up and signed. A 
parsonage also was secured through the joint subscriptions of 
St. Bartholomew's Lutheran and St. John's Lutheran Churches, 
which from the fall of 1867 became a part of the charge. This 
parsonage was a large frame building still standing on lower 
Ash street. 

Rev. S. P. Orwig took charge Oct. 1st, 1873 an d served to 
October 1st, 1878. By his earnest preaching he deepened the 
spiritual life of the congregation. He was followed by Rev. A. 
K. Zimmerman who served from June 1st, 1879 to November isr, 
1882. On June 1st, 1883 Rev. S. G. Shannon became pastor 
serving to March 1st, 1885. It was during Pastor Shannon's 
administration that agitation was started for a new church. 
The growth of the church demanded services every Sabbath. 
This sentiment grew until it found expression a few years 
later in the purchase of the union church by the Lutherans in 
the pastorate of Rev. F. W. Staley (May 1st, 1885-May 1st, 
1890). The purchase was made May 1st, 1886 when the property, 
was bought, the sum of two thousand five hundred dollars being- 
paid to the Reformed for their interests. At the same time plans 
were made for the erection of a new church on the site of the 
old building. G. W. Rombach, J. H. Harly, S. M. Miller, Chas. 
Heilman, Isaac Stryker and J. G. Bower were apointed a build- 
ing committee. The corner-stone was laid July 25th, 1886 and the 
building dedicated March 6th of the following year. The cost of 
building and grounds was $23,000. Provision was made on the 
day of dedication for the liquidation of all indebtedness but due 
to financial depression of the times about fifteen hundred dollars 
was not paid, thus leaving a debt of that amount. 

In the year 1891 the present parsonage was built in the pastor- 
ate of Rev. M. H. Fishburn (Aug. 1st, 1890-Oct. 15th, 1894).' 
The approximate cost was five thousand dollars. Of this amount 
thirty-two hundred dollars was raised by the congregation, 
leaving an indebtedness on the parsonage of $1,800, making a total 
indebtedness on church and parsonage of thirty-three hundred 
dollars. This was increased to thirty-seven hundred by a note 
given to the St. John's Church for their share in the old parsonage. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 293 

Deaconesses appointed under the administration of Rev. Fish- 
burn raised about one thousand dollars of this amount. Another 
one thousand dollars was raised by assessment under the ad- 
ministration of Rev. A. O. Mullen (Dec. 16th, 1894- July 1st, 
1903), leaving a debt of seventeen hundred dollars. 

The Rev. John S. English became pastor Feb. 6th, 1904 and 
served to March, 1905. During his pastorate a pipe organ was 
placed in the gallery of the church at a cost of three thousand 
dollars. 

The Rev. H. D. Shinier became pastor Aug. 1st, 1905 and 
served to April 30th, 19 12. During his pastorate the original 
debt of seventeen hundred dollars was liquidated, the parsonage 
equipped with electric light and a steam heating plant, the latter 
costing four hundred dollars. In 1911 a steam plant at the cost 
of one thousand dollars was placed in the church. 

The present pastor, Rev. M. Stanley Kemp, Litt. D., became 
pastor December 1st, 191 2. During the pastorate the church 
was completely renovated inside, the walls frescoed, the wood- 
work refinished, the windows repaired and both Sunday School 
and church rooms recarpeted, at a cost of twenty-three hundred 
dollars. The Church auditorium and Sunday School rooms 
were furnished with new electroliers in place of the old lighting 
system. This latter work cost two hundred dollars and was the 
work of the Y. P. S. C. E. Fifty dollars worth of new hymnals 
was also furnished the congregation by the Come and See Bible 
Class. The Brotherhood Bible Class furnished a new patent 
twenty-one dollar Bulletin Board and with the aid of other Sun- 
day School classes have beautified the exterior of the church 
with beds of flowers. 

The present church is known by the name of The First Lutheran 
Church. The change in name from St. Bartholomew's to the 
present title was made in 1886 when the present building was 
erected and a charter obtained for the congregation. During the 
last fifty years she has had an eventful history. She entertained 
the Susquehanna Synod in 1887, 1897 and 1910. The first 
Christian Endeavor Society organized in the state is the Y. P. S. 
C. E. of this church, organized by the Rev. Shannon in the early 
part of his pastorate. Her first pastor, Rev. Dr. T. C. Billheimer, 
served for many years as Professor of Hebrew at the Seminary 



294 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

at Gettysburg. The Rev. A. O. Mullen and the present pastor 
were representatives of the Synod at the General Synod, the 
former serving for some years as financial secretary of the General 
Synod. In her history she has sent out two ministerial sons, the 
Rev. W. Mottern, of Riverside, Cal., and the Rev. Win. Redcay, 
of Hanover, Pa. 

The church membership is nearing the five hundred mark 
and the Sabbath School with its six organized adult Bible Classes 
and many intermediate classes has grown so that an addition to the 
Sunday School rooms is imperative. By the grace of God and a 
loyal membership there stretches before her a very hopeful future. 



ST. MATTHEW'S, CATAWISSA. 
Rev. U. Myers, D. D., Pastor. 

Services, by Lutherans, were held in or near Catawissa 
(Hughesburg) as early as 1790. On May 1, 1796, a congrega- 
tion of thirteen was organized. From 1802 to 1804 services 
were held in a barn near a mill on the Catawissa Creek — the 
second from its mouth. A church was built in 1804, in union 
with the Reformed. It was called St. Johns. It occupied the 
site of the present Soldiers' Monument. 

The pastors of St. John's, until the organization of St. 
Matthew's were : Rev. C. Stock, Frederick Piitt, Peter Hall, 
Peter Kessler, Jeremiah Shindel, 1830-1837 and M. J. Ever from 

1837- 

On June 23, 1845, at a meeting at which Revs. W. J. Ever and 
Charles Winner (who was assisting Rev. Eyer in his extensive 
parish) were active, it was resolved that we form an English 
Congregation." On motion of Rev. Eyer, Stephen Baldy, Joseph 
Brobst, Jacob Knight, John Hartman and Peter Bodine were 
appointed a committee to prepare a constitution. On July 13, 
1945 this committee presented rules and regulations for the 
government of the English Evangelical Lutheran St. Matthew's 
congregation of Catawissa." This report was adopted. 

The congregation was chartered Nov. 18, 1850. The church 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



295 



building was dedicated in 185 1, Rev. P. Willard, of Danville, 
preaching the sermon. 

Mr. Eyer preached in English to the St. Matthew's congrega- 
tion from its organization in 1845 to ^Si, in the mother church, 




St. Matthew's Church, Catawissa 



St. John's, where he also preached in German to the St. John's 
congregation. From 1851 to 1862 he preached in English in 
St. Matthew's church and in German in St. John's. In 1862 
Rev. Eyer relinquished St. Matthew's. Rev. J. F. Wampole 



2g6 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

served St. Matthew's in connection with other places and with 
some assistants, e. g., S. W. Owen from 1862 to 1864. 

Rev. J. R. Dimm, pastor at Bloomsburg, served from 1864 
to 1866. During this pastorate the congregation left the Minis- 
terium of Pennsylvania and joined the Synod of East Pennsyl- 
vania. When the Susquehanna Conference of this Synod, in 
1867, became the Susquehanna Synod, St. Matthew's became, 
and has remained, a member of this Synod. 

Rev. Daniel Beckner served as pastor from 1867 to 1870. 
The Vought Church was associated with St. Matthew's as a 
charge until 1877. 

Rev. S. Curtis was pastor from 1870 to 1872. Near the 
close of this pastorate special services followed by a large ac- 
cession were held at which Rev. R. H. Fletcher was the preacher. 
Following this, a large class was confirmed by the pastor. 

During the summer of 1872 the pulpit was supplied by C. S. 
Coates, a student of Missionary Institute. 

Following this, Rev. R. F. Kingsley, a licentiate of the East 
Pennsylvania Synod, served for a year or more. During this 
period the situation was quite peculiar in several ways. After 
Mr. Kingsley's retirement the charge was vacant until Rev. 
E. H. Leisenring, a student of Missionary Institute, served it as 
a supply and then as pastor from 1875 to 1878. 

Rev. F. P. Manhart, then a school principal in Bloomsburg, 
was "pastoral supply 1 ' for six months following. 

Rev. J. F. Diener was pastor from 1879 to 1882 During this 
pastorate a lot was bought and the parsonage still used was 
erected upon it. 

Rev. D. M. Henkel, D. D., a member of the Ministerium of 
Pennsylvania, a resident of Catawissa, and a son-in-law of Rev. 
W. J. Ever, the founder of the congregation, supplied for five 
months. 

On May 15, 1883, the pastorate of Rev. U. Myers, which still 
continues, began. Throughout the whole of this long pastorate 
the congregation has uniformly maintained a vigorous life. The 
contributions for benevolence and for the needs of the home 
work have been large and generous. During the year 1884 the 
church was remodelled and repaired at a cost of $6,226. The 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 297 

committee in charge of these improvements were: S. D. Rinard, 
P. R. Baldy, G. Manhart, T. M. Berninger and G. M. Kreigh. 

On Dec. 14, 1884 the church was re-dedicated, the following 
ministers having part in the services : Revs. E. A. Sharretts, 
M. L. Shindel, F. P. Manhart, J. V. Bodine, E. H. Leisenring 
and J. H. Neiman, together with the pastor. A storm of Sep- 
tember 30, 1896, damaged the church considerably. The repairs 
and various improvements were promptly made and the church 
was re-dedicated on Dec. 20, 1896. 

Rev. J. H. Weber, D. D. and R. G. Bannen, D. D., preached 
at the morning and evening services, respectively. 

A large gothic altar was placed in the church in the year 1900. 

A pipe organ was secured in 1903, the 20th anniversary of Dr. 
Myer's pastorate. 

In 1908 the 25th anniversary of Dr. Myer's pastorate was 
fittingly observed. 

On March 29, 1914 St. Matthew's was again re-dedicated. 
Extensive enlargement and improvement had been made at a 
cost of about $5,500. On this occasion Rev. F. P. Manhart, the 
president of the Synod and Rev. D. E. Rupley, preached. The 
pastor, as at previous re-dedications, very successfully managed 
the finances. 

St. Matthew's is maintaining its vigor. 

Note — The above was compiled in part from a history of St. 
Matthew's, by Rev. D. M, Henkel, D. D. F. P. M. 



ORIOLE CHARGE. NIPPENOSE VALLEY. 
Rev. Roy E. Meyer, Pastor. 

The first Lutheran pastor in the Nippenose Valley was Rev. 
Gustavus Schultze. He was of German birth and education. 
His preaching was all in the German language. In his earlier 
years he is said to have served as a soldier under Napoleon 
Bonaparte. For forty years he was the only Lutheran minister 
in the great valley of the West Branch River. Rev. Gustavus 
Schultze was born June 30, 1779. He came into this country 



298 



THE SUSOUEHAXXA SYNOD 



in 1816 and died at Ball's Mills Pa., January 9, 1874, aged 94 
years, 6 month, 9 days. 

The second regular Lutheran pastor was the Rev. F. A. 
Barnitz. He preached the English language. Someone has said, 




Limestone or St. James' Church, near Oriole 

''There are now but few living who remember Mr. Barnitz. The 
good which he has done remains as an abiding monument to hi? 
memory." 

Rev. Barnitz was followed in the summer of 1847 by Rev. 
Thomas M. Flint. His pastorate was a very short one, lasting- 
only a few months. He is said to have been a good and earnest 
preacher. He died in Baltimore soon after he left here. 

The next to be called to this charge was the Rev. J. Evans. 
After Evans the following were called : 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



20® 



Rev. Samuel Yingling served two years. 
Rev. J. T. Fahs. 
Rev. P. Bergstresser, D. D. 
Rev. E. Studebaker began work 1858. 

Rev. W. H. Heisler became pastor Jan. 1, 1862 and labored 
there until September 1, 1866, four years and eight months. 




St. Peter's Church, Collumsville 



Rev. H. B. Winton became pastor Dec, 1866. Under Bro. 
Winton s ministry the new church edifice was completed in the 
spring and dedicated some time in May, 1867. (Present Lime- 
stone Church). He resigned in February, 1868. He was the 
last one to serve the valley churches in connection with the 
Jersey Shore charge. After this the two churches of the valley 
formed a charge by themselves. 



300 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Rev. D. Beckner next became pastor. He served ten months 
and then resigned. 

Rev. G. S. Battersby was pastor from 1872 to 1875. 

Rev. J. A. Flickinger, April 1, 1878 and served three years 
arid three months. 

Rev. R. H. Fletcher, supply. 

Rev. J. G. Griffith 1882-1882. 

Rev. T. J. Frederick 1884- 1888. 

Rev. I. H. McGann 1 888-1892. 

Rev. L. N. Fleck 1892-1894. 

Rev. W. A. Trostle 1899-1907. 

Rev. T. B. Uber 1909-1911. 

Rev. F. H. Schrader 1911-1913. 

Roy J. Meyer was called Dec. 25th, 191 6. He is supplying 
until June when after his graduation at Susquehanna University 
he will move to the valley. 

Corner-stone of the Limestone Church was laid Sept. 23, 1866. 

Corner-stone of the St. Peter's Church was laid during the 
year 1852. 

On Nov. 16, 1884 the Limestone Church, after being exten- 
sively repaired, was re-dedicated by the pastor, Rev. T. J. 
Frederick. Rev. J. A. Flickinger preached the sermon. 

Student Karl Irvin, of Susquehanna, supplied the charge dur- 
ing 1 91 4. On Oct. 11, 1 914 St. Peter's Collomsville, after ex- 
tensive repairs and improvements, was re-dedicated by Rev. 
Frank P. Manhart, President of the Synod. Student A. W. 
Smith, of Susquehanna, supplied the charge during the summer 
of 1016. 



TURBOTVILLE CHARGE 
Rev. G. B. Ely. 

St. James Lutheran Congregation has its beginning as a Union 
Church (Lutheran and Reformed), although no Reformed con- 
gregation existed until 1837. The church was built in 1819 and 
was known as the St. Jacobs Union Church. 

The church was supplied by Milton pastors at first. McEwens- 
ville, Turbotville, Washingtonville, the River Church, Paradise, 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



3 Oi 



White Deer Valley, Black Hole Valley and Follmers were points 
of preaching and ofttimes the same pastors served both the 
Lutheran and Reformed congregations, the feeling of unanimity 
between the congregation being very strong in those days. 

The period from 1819 to 1854 had the following pastors : Rev. 
Ferd Engle 18 15- 17, Rev. Jacob Repass 1826, Rev. Fred. Waage 




Messiah Church, McEwensville 

1828, Rev. Jared Sheetz 1829, Rev. William German 1830, Rev. 
C. P. Miller 1831, Rev. Jared Sheets 1835, Rev. Chas. F. Stoever 
Dec. 1836 to Sept. 1, 1845, Rev - S. R. Boyer 1845 to l8 59- 

Under the pastorate of Rev. S. R. Boyer St. James Lutheran 
Congregation became a separate church. 

The Old Lmion church building was no longer satisfactory so 
it was decided, by a majority of the congregation, to again build 
a union church, but Rev. S. R. Boyer and a large number of 
Lutheran members preferred a Lutheran Church. 

The Union church was however built in 1855 and late in the 
fall, before it was quite completel, it caught lire mysteriously one 
night and both the New Lmion church and the Old Log Union 
church, which stood close below, were burnt to the ground. 



302 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Fearing that another Union church would meet the same fate 
it was decided to build three churches. 

Rev. S. R. Boyer, with a large number of Lutherans, built 
Zion Lutheran church on Paradise street. The Reformed con- 
gregation built their church a little above the place where the 
New Union church stood ; and the remaining Lutherans built St. 
James Lutheran church on the foundation of the Xew Union 
church, which was burnt, and St. James is still known by the 
name of "The Union Church," and rightly so from it's union 
spirit. 

These churches were all built in 1856 and St. James Lutheran 
church was dedicated April 30th, 1857, Rev. John T. Williams 
being the first pastor. 

The pastors of St. James congregation from 1857 to 1917 are 
as follows : 

Rev. John T. Williams 1857 to 1859, 
Rev. A. Babb, i860 to 1863, 
Rev. A. R. Horn 1863 to 1865, 
Rev. E. J. Wolf 1866 to 1868, 
Rev. G. Sill 1869 to 1870 
Rev. U. Myers, 1871 to 1879. 
Rev. W. C.McCool 1880 to 1883,, 
Rev. M. L. Schmucker 1885 to 1889, 
Rev. I. B. Christ, 1890 to 1895, 
Rev. Geo. W. Fortney 1895 to 1900, 
Rev. John H. C. Manifold 1901 to 1913, 
Rev. George B. Ely 19 14 to 19 — . 

The charge when Rev. J. T. Williams became pastor was com- 
posed of Turbotville, McEwensville, Follmers and Paradise 
The parsonage being at McEwensville. 

A parsonage was built at Turbotville and Rev. A. Babb lived 
first where the present parsonage now is. 

In 1870 while Rev. G. Sill was pastor the congregation pur- 
chased a silver plated communion set. 

During *Rev. U. Myers pastorate the charge was divided, 
Follmers and Paradise withdrawing. A half interest in the 
parsonage was bought from the Follmers and Paradise congre- 
gations, thus making the Turbotville pastorate as at present, 
Turbotville and McEwensville. 



m 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



303 



The Turbotville charge installed a large pipe organ and a 
reed organ, a bookcase was also bought. 

During the thirteen years that Rev. J. H. C. Manifold labored 
here the congregation rebuilt the parsonage in 1902, at a cost 
of over $1,500. The church was rebuilt in 1905 at a cost of $2,- 
686. The barn was rebuilt in 1909 at a cost of $564. 

In the two years that Rev. Geo. B. Ely has served electric 




St. James' Church, Turbotville 

lights were installed in the parsonage, the Sunday School bought 
a piano, costing $325, and the church put a new fence around 
the grave yard, costing over $100. The Duplex Envelope sys- 
tem was introduced and ninetv-six members were added to the 



M'cE'icensz'illc Church. 

The Messiah Lutheran Congregation in McEwensville of the 
Turbotville pastorate had its beginning in 1S42, as a union 
church with the Reformed. The pastors of thib church and the 
^history of the charge are the same as at Turbotville. 

In 1873, during the pastorate of Rev. U. Myers, Messiah 



304 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Lutheran Church paid the Reformed Congregation $2,200 for 
half interest in the church and thus became a separate congre- 
gation. A reed organ and bookcase were also purchased during 
this time. 

In 1882 while Rev. W. C. McCool was pastor the church was 
rebuilt. 

In 1914 and 191 5, while Rev. Geo. B. Ely was pastor, the 
church was repainted, heaters put into the basement, new carpet 
put in, an independent electric light plant installed at a total 
cost of almost $1,500. 

Twenty-six new members were added to the congregation. 



HISTORY OF GRACE ENGLISH LUTHERAN CHURCH, 
WILKES-BARRE, PA. 

Rev. W. R. Fitzgerald. 

Grace English Lutheran Church of Wilkes-Barre, Penna., was 
organized on March 18, 1894, with thirty-four charter members. 
Services were first conducted in the Y. M. C. A. lecture room 
during the last quarter of the previous year by visiting clergy- 
men from the Susquehanna Synod until the arrival of the Rev. 
Carl Zinnsmeister, of New Kensington, Pa., who preached the 
first sermon on January 14, 1894. He entered the field as the 
regular pastor on February 4, 1894. On February 18, 1894, he 
organized a Sunday school with sixteen members. The Ladies' 
Aid Society was organized February 22, 1894, with twelve mem- 
bers. The Luther League was organized February 25, 1895. 
After worshiping in the Y. M. C. A. for some time the people 
eagerly looked forward to having their own church home. A com- 
mittee to secure a lot and the pastor were favorably impressed 
with a lot, corner South Main and Ross streets, on which were 
four stores. This lot was purchased November 21, 1895. Ground 
was broken for a chapel on the rear of the lot October 15, 1896. 
The corner-stone was laid November 8, 1896. The pastor being- 
assisted by the Revs. J. H. Weber, D. D„ and A. N. Warner. 
On June 29, 1897, the church was dedicated to Almighty God. 
Revs. A. S. Hartman, S. B. Barnitz and John Wagner assisted 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 305 

at these services. The congregation entered into the chapel on 
April 25, 1897, after worshiping for three years and three 
months in the Y. M. C. A. Rev. Zinnsmeister continued to serve 
the congregation faithfully until April 30, 1898. 

Rev. Walter Miller became pastor July 1, 1898. During- his 
pastorate many of those who had left the church were reclaimed 
and the indebtedness paid. He served the Mission until June 30. 
1904. 

Rev. M. H. Fischer began to supply the Mission as a Senior in 
the Seminary at Susquehanna University, at the request of Dr. 
Hartman, of the Home Mission Board, October 23, 1904. He 
entered the field as a regular pastor May I, 1905. He organized 
the following societies to assist in the work: Prayer Meeting 
and Bible Study in May, 1905 ; Teachers' Meeting in June, 1905 ; 
Home Department, October 22, 1905 ; Brotherhood of Grace, 
November 14, 1905. Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary 
Society, November 30, 1905; Messenger Service, March 25, 
1906. 

During the summer of 1907 the chapel was repaired at a cost 
of $415, all of which was paid. 

The pastoral work of Rev. Fischer closed May 31, 1909. 

Rev. Joseph D. Krout took charge as regular pastor October 
31, 1909. 

On March 2j, 1910, a S500 mortgage and note were publicly 
burned. This was the first mortgage indebtedness paid since the 
organization of the congregation. 

On March 28, 19 10, it was unanimously decided to sell the 
Main and Ross Street property. The property was sold for 
$35,000, and a lot was purchased at 500 South Franklin street, 
at the cost of $9,500. A building committee was apponted and 
the plans as submitted by Thomas Podmore, architect, were 
adopted and the general contract was awarded to Herman Mail- 
ander for $22,000. The ground for the new church was broken 
July 28, 1910. The old church was vacated April 30, 191 1, and 
the first services were held in the Sunday school room of the 
new church May 7, 191 1. On May 28, 191 1, the church was 
dedicated to the worship of Almighty God. Rev. A. S. Hart- 
man, D. D., secretary of the Home Mission Board, preached the 
sermon and the Rev. C. R. Botsford, of Berwick, made an ad- 
dress. 

Luth. Synod — 20 



306 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

The entire cost of the new church property was $38,681.22. A 
mortgage of $12,300 was placed upon the church. 

Rev. Krout closed his labors July 1, 191 3. 

Rev. W. R. Fitzgerald, the present pastor, took charge May 
1, 1914. During his pastorate the floating indebtedness has been 
paid. Fifty new members were added to the church. Over 
four hundred dollars has been raised to make a payment on the 
indebtedness. At a special congregational meeting held June 28, 
191 6, it was decided that the congregation assume half the in- 
debtedness and make an earnest effort to pay at least this amount 
by the quadri-centennial celebration in 191 7. The people are 
now at work upon this special fund. Should this be done the 
work of Grace Mission will become one of the strong churches of 
the Susquehanna Synod. 



ST. MATTHEW'S, SHAMOKIN DAM. 
Rev. Frank P. Maxhart. 

There were occasional services, and possibly services for con- 
siderable periods at Shamokin Dam by pastors of Lutheran 
churches in the vicinity as early as 1835. J- P- Shindel., Jr., 
preached in 1835. 

However, the regular life of St. Matthew's dates from 1872, 
when Rev. M. L. Shindel, pastor of Trinity, Selinsgrove, organ- 
ized the congregation with the constitution it still has. He sup- 
plied the congregation until he became pastor at Danville in 1874. 

Rev. E. B. Killinger supplied the congregation while a stu- 
dent of Missionary Institute and while pastor at Northumber- 
land. Rev. John B Focht, then principal of the classical depart- 
ment of Missionary Institute, served the congregation during 
1881 and 1882. 

Rev. P. Born, D. D., superintendent of Missionary Institute, 
served as pastor from 1882 to 1884. 

Rev. J. B. Dimm, D. D., then principal of the Classical De- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



307 



partment of Missionary Institute, and afterward a professor and 
president of Susquehanna University, was pastor from 1884 to 
191 5. During these thirty-one years the congregation had a 
steady and substantial growth, reporting at the end of the period 
100 communicant and 140 confirmed members. 

Until the erection the brick church still occupied, the ser- 
vices were usually held in the school house. The church is 




St. Matthew's Church, Shamokin Dam 



Gothic in architecture and is 34x48 feet in size, the vestibule be- 
ing additional. Rev. Frank P. Manhart, as president of the 
Synod, cared for the congregation from the time of Dr. Dimm's 
retirement until April, 1916, when he became the pastor and 
assumed the care of the congregation as such. 

At the time of this writing very considerable improvements to 
the property are being arranged for; probably the erection of a 
church edifice 40x60, connecting with the present structure. 



3o8 



TH1$ SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



HISTORICAL SKETCH OF TRINITY EVANGELICAL 
LUTHERAN CHURCH, SHAMOKIN, PA. 

By Rev. W. E. Fischer, D. D. 

The records of Trinity Lutheran church show that the Rev. 
Peter Willard, familiarly known as "Father Willard," preached 
to the Lutherans at Shamokin and the immediate vicinity in 185 1. 




Trinity Church, Shamoki 



His immediate successor was the Rev. C. J. Ehrhart, who later 
on was principal of the Preparatory Department of Pennsyl- 
vania college, Gettysburg, Pa. It w r as during his pastorate, in the 
year 1854, that an organization was effected, services being held 
in a little old log church located where now the fine structure of 
our Presbyterian Lutheran church stands. For three years the 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 309 

Rev. Ehrhart served statedly the small flock of Lutherans of 
this city. 

His successor was the Rev. J. F. Wampole, whose name is a 
household word in this community and the region round about, 
and who ministered to the church until the year 1865, when the 
Rev. J. B. Keller was called as pastor. It was during his term 
of service that the present church was erected. He was a faith- 
ful servant of God, aiid his memory lingers fragrantly in the 
minds of some who yet live and serve. 

In the year 1870, the Rev. J. R. Williams became the pastor of 
this flock, and he continued to serve it for three years with emi- 
nent satisfaction. 

He was succeeded by the Rev. S. Domer, whose warm 
personality and fruitful ministry attached him strongly to the 
people and community at large. Dr. Domer was pastor at Sha- 
mokin for only one year and siN months. His resignation was 
accepted with great regret. 

The Rev. H. C. HaithcoN, D. D., took charge in 1875, and his 
work was unremitting for the welfare of his flock. He was 
followed by the Rev. P. S. Hooper in the year 1878,, who served 
acceptably until the year 1881, when the Rev. J. A. Flickinger 
succeeded him. It was during this administration that the 
church building was enlarged to its present proportions. Brother 
Flickinger was an earnest, fearless preacher. His resignation 
came as a surprise to the congregation, for he was highly es- 
teemed for his work's sake. 

In 1885 the Rev. L. D. Wells took charge. He served the 
church until May 5, 1889. His work was constructive. In ap- 
preciation, a beautiful memorial window, bearing his name, 
adorns the auditorium. 

The Rev. Dr. C. T. Steck followed Mr. Wells, and he served 
the church at Shamokin until 1893. Dr. Steck's pulpit minis- 
trations were at once recognized as being of a very high order, 
and his hearers delighted to listen to his eloquent presentation 
of the truth. Dr. Steck suddenly died in Shamokin and his 
body lies in the beautiful cemetery of this city. 

The earliest history of Trinity shows that services were also 
held in the Odd Fellows' hall on Sunbury street, the present lo- 
cation of the Roaring Creek Water Company. The congrega- 



3IO THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

tion grew steadily in numbers and influence. In the early his- 
tory of this church, services were held in both the German and 
English language. Later on the German was discontinued, in 
consequence of which the congregation lost in membership, those 
still desiring German preaching uniting with Grace Lutheran of 
the General Council, and the Reformed, where services are 
still held in both languages. Despite these losses, Trinity grew in 
numbers until to-day she reports to Synod 700 communicants, 
840 confirmed and 1041 baptized members. 

The present pastor, the Rev. W. E. Fischer, D. D., took charge 
in September, 1893. 



GRACE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 
MOUNT CARMEL, PA. 

Rsv. A. L. DtlxEnbeck 

The following persons having made a profession of faith ac- 
cording to the doctrines of the Evangelical Lutheran church as 
held by the General Synod, formed themselves on the 18th of 
May, 1855, into a congregation: 

Peter Stroh, John Dreher, Frederick Fahrion, George Horn- 
berger, Catharine Klinger, Sarah Dreher, Catharine Stroh, Man- 
Ann Fahrion, Christian Knapp, Lewis Knapp, Jonathan Klin- 
ger, George Long, Elizabeth Klinger, Magdalena Fagley and 
Maria Steele. 

This formation was brought about by the Rev. C. J. Ehrhart,. 
who served them as pastor until April 27, 1856. The first com- 
munion was held May 20, 1855. 

There is no recorded history between April 27, 1856, and June 
18, 1858. 

In the spring of 1858, Rev. J. F. Wampole became the pastor 
of a joint church composed of 15 Lutherans, 5 German Re- 
formeds. and 2 Methodists. Rev. W. L. Heisler succeeded Rev. 
Wampole beginning his labors Oct. 1, 1859, and resigning Jan. 
1, 1862. During his pastorate 27 persons were added to the 
church. In February of the same year, Rev. F. A Barnitz, pas- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL I.UTHERAX CHURCH 311 




Grace Church, Mt. Carmcl 



312 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

tor of St. James' Lutheran church .of Ashland, began serving 
the union congregation. 

Up to this time services had been held in a frame school house 
on the southeast corner of Second and Grape streets. The cor- 
ner-stone of the new building, on a lot between First Avenue 
and Cherry street was laid October 18, 1863. There are no re- 
cords showing the cost of the building, which was probably 
about $1,700.00, nor of the date of dedication which was some 
time in the spring of 1867. 

New energy and zeal apparently came with the new building. 
In 1867, Rev. J. R. Sikes became pastor. A charter of incor- 
poration was granted by Judge A. Jordan, Jan. 26, 1870. 

Rev. J. A. Adams irregularly supplied the pulpit from Dec. 1, 
1867, to April 19, 1868. Under the direction of the newly formed 
Susquehanna Synod, the church was united with the Shamokin 
Valley church into one charge and from this new church Rev. 
Adams received and accepted a call, entering upon the field June 
1, 1868. He served the field for eight years and six months, re- 
signing Dec. 1, 1876. During his pastorate there were 82 ac- 
cessions, and many repairs and additions made to the church 
building. The re-dedication services were held on Oct. 18, 1874. 

The parish was without a pastor until June 3, 1877, when Rev. 
O. D. S. Marclay of St. James', Ashland, became pastor, officiat- 
ing only occasionally for about one year. The church now felt 
able to support a resident pastor and a call was extended to Rev. 
C. W. Sechrist at a salary of $300.00 per year. He entered 
upon his duties Feb. 1, 1879. A parsonage lot was purchased 
for $75.00, and on it was built a house costing (including lot) 
$1,268.51. A debt of only $135.65 remained for a brief space of 
time. During this pastorate the grounds about the church and 
parsonage were beautified and the interior of the church painted 
and papered. 65 children were baptized, 34 received into the 
church by letter, and 42 confirmed; a net gain in membership 
(so the old record runneth) of about 40. Rev. Sechrist resigned 
Feb. 1, 1881, and after a vacancy of about eight months was 
succeeded by Rev. M. V. Shadow. 

Rev. J. C. Schindel began his pastorate December 7, 1884, and 
continued until 1891. During his pastorate the church made 
«reat advancement. Plans for a new church building were made 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHL'RCH 



313 



in 1889. For several years the work could not, however, be un- 
dertaken. During this pastorate a Mission was organized at 
Locust Gap, which has since been abandoned. Three Slavic 
Lutheran churches were organized by this brother — one in Mount 
Carmel, one in Freeland, and one in Nantieoke. Various so- 
cieties were organized within the church to help with the local 




Grace English Church, Wilkes-Barre 

work, finances were systematized, and the cause of benevolence 
advanced. 

Rev. J. W. Henderson was the next pastor. The work of the 
church was actively pushed during these two years, notwith- 
standing many adverse circumstances and conditions. The pres- 
ent treasurer of the church, H. B. Henderson, is a son of this 
former pastor. 

In 1893, Rev. D. R. Becker accepted a call to this field and for 
7 years labored zealously for the cause of Christ and the ad T 
vancement of His kingdom. It was during this period that the 
present church edifice was erected. The structure is of brick 
and cost as far as it can be ascertained about $10,000.00. Much 
of the labor was performed by the men of the church and the 
structure erected in 1894 could not be built to-day for less than 



3 T 4 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

$20,000.00. Resigning- he was succeeded by Rev. A. J. Rudi- 
sill, who also served the church for 7 years. " Wideawake earnest 
efforts were made and progress witnessed during this efficient 
pastorate. It was through the earnest efforts of this pastor that 
the indebtedness remaining on the church was removed, and the 
congregation was once more free from debt. After a short in- 
terim. Rev. W. A. Kump became pastor and he also administered 
the affairs of the church for a seven-year period. Steady growth 
marked the life of the church. Special attention was paid to the 
catechisation of the young. Repairs were made to the par- 
sonage. The entire church was re-frescoed and new chandeliers 
installed. 

Leaving the field in December, 1913, Rev. Kump was succeeded 
by the present pastor, Rev. A. L. Dillenbeck who arrived upon 
the field April t, 1914. With great enthusiasm the people rallied 
to the needs of the church. A wave of religious emotion had 
swept over the city and its present effect was felt at this particu- 
lar time. Audiences that taxed the seating capacity of the build- 
ing were customary. The Common Service was used for the 
first time and its use still continues. Especial activity marked the 
church life of the young people. An active Christian Endeavor 
Society, a large Men's Bible Class, a graded Primary Sunday 
School directed by the pastor's wife, a Choir Director for the 
first time in the history of the church, a Junior Choir of 45 voices, 
a Senior Choir of 30 voices, the faithful Ladies' Aid Society, the 
newly-organized Merry Workers' Society, a growing Sunday 
School, and a faithful Church Council all evidenced increased 
zeal and loyalty to the church. 

The enlargement of the Church auditorium by making the old 
Sunday School room a part of it, the erection of a new building 
on the rear of the lot containing a modern Sunday School room 
on the second floor, and a large and commodious Gymnasium 
or Social room, together with a kitchen, ladies' parlor, locker 
room, toilets and a shower bath and boiler room on the first floor, 
took ptace in the year 191 5-16. A new Moller Pipe Organ cost- 
ing $1,800.00 was also installed. The entire improvements cost 
about $16,000.00. Of this amount $9,000.00 was secured before 
the building was built and the balance was secured in cash and 
pledges on the day of dedication, Dec. 19, 191 5. During the: 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



315 



year of building the congregation spent a grand total of nearly 
$11,000.00 for all objects. A debt of about $9,000.00 remains. 

The church, with its organ, its Lutheran arrangement and 
appointments, its facilities for all the varied work of church life 
in a modern city, is now ready to do its most efficient work. 

During 1914-16 over 250 souls were added to the church. 
Losses however were heavy, many moving from the city because 
of anticipated strikes and for other reasons, many by death, and 
losses through the organization of the Kulpmorit Church, made 
the net gain in communicant membership about 100. The corii- 
muncant membership now is about 340. (Rev. Dillenbeck re- 
signed March, 1917.) 



ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH OF CLINTON 
TOWNSHIP or BLACK HOLE VALLEY 

By Rev. E. E. Diettrich. 

Locally known as "The Brick Church." There is much con- 
fusion in the early records and in some places it is impossible 
to reconcile the varied statements. After having gone over them 
carefully we believe that the following history is substantially 
correct. Unfortunately, no records of the church exist of an 
earlier date than 1896 for reasons which Ave shall give here- 
after. As early as 18 16 or 18 17 an organization was effected 
among the Lutherans of this valley, who up to this time wor- 
shipped in the old Emanuals Church of Muncy Valley. This 
Emanuels Church seems to have been the mother church in this 
part of the state. Mr. J. F. Meginnis in his history of Lycoming 
County, Page 586 says: "The Lutheran and Reformed Societies 
jointly built a church in 1817 where the present Lutheran Church 
now stands. This old house was destroyed by fire in 1848 and on 
its site the present beautiful structure was built. The first pastor 
was Rev. Eyler, the Reformed pastor was Rev. Engle. Yet 
Rev. Frederick Engle's name appears on the records of said 
Emanuels Church as the Lutheran pastor from 1813 to 1823 
hence it would appear that he was the Lutheran pastor and not 
the Reformed pastor. The deed for the land was made by Mr. 
Philip Ranee and his wife Elizabeth Ranee to Mr. John Heilman 



3i6 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYXOD 



and Jacob Metskar, trustees for the German Lutheran and 
Presbyterian congregations, and is dated Feb. 17, 1818. Con- 
sideration $1.00. The date cut on the corner stone is 1818. The 
amount of land conveyed was one half acre. This deed is re- 
corded in Deed Book No. 107, page 43 by Mr. George W. Gil- 
more. This land was conveyed by Mr. John Penn and Mr. 




St. John's Church, Clinton Township, Lycoming County 



Thomas Penn, proprietors of the estate of Mr. Wiliam Penn, to 
Mr. Michael Diffenderfer, Apr. 29, 1773. Deed of conveyance 
entered in roll office of the State of Pennsylvania Patent Book A, 
Vol. 13, page 463. He conveyed it to his wife by his will Aug 2*] \ 
1788. At her death Air. Mathias Young inherited it June 1, 181 1. 
He sold it Nov. 14, 181 1 to Air. Wiliam Miller, from whom Air. 
Ranee obtained it. As St. John's Church was served in connec- 
tion with the aforementioned Emanuels Church we will take 
their records and find the following pastors served it. Rev. 
Frederick Engle from the time of its organization to 1823. 
Rev. Joseph Repass 1823-1829. Rev. William Garman 1829-1832. 
Rev. C. P. Miller 1832-1837. Rev. C. F. Staver Apr. 9, 1837- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 31/ 

1839. Rev. J. T. Wiliams . . . .- Rev. George Parson Dec. 

8, 1845. Rev. Parson seems to have been the patriarch of Luther- 
anism in these parts and served a large and laborious field. The 
old Stone church of White Deer Valley was rebuilt in 1845 an d 
became a Lutheran church. The White, sometimes known as 
the Frame Church, near Elimsport was built in 1847. About this 
time these two churches were united to make a new charge and 
St. John's was separated from Emanuels and joined with them 
thus forming the Clinton Charge. Rev. Parson ceased to serve 
St. John's although he continued to serve Emanuels until 1865. 
The next pastor was Rev. Henry Ziegler, D. D. 1850-1853. 
Rev. Philip Sheeder 1853-1856. Rev. D. S. Trackenmiiler 1859- 
1861. Rev. A. W. Lentz 1863-July 4, 1874. Rev. J. A. Flick- 
inger June 18, 1875-Dec. 30, 1877. At this time St. John's was 
separated from the Clinton Charge and united with Muncv. Rev. 
E. H. Leisenring Sept. 17, 1878-Oct. 28, 1885. Rev. M. S. 
Cressman Feb. 6, 1886-Feb 1, 1888. Rev. J. A. Koser Aug. 1, 
1888-1895. Rev. W. F. Steck Dec. 1, 1895. Rev. Steck is still 
pastor at Muncy. But in Jan. 17, 1909 St. John's was separated 
from Muncv and became a separate charge of which Rev. S. A. 
Games was the pastor from Apr. 1, 1910 to Apr. 30, 191 5. On 
Aug. 15, 1 91 6 Rev. E. E. Dietterich became pastor and still 
serves it. The first church was a log structure and was erected 
in the winter of 18 17 and 1818 it was a substantial structure 
built in the style of those times. This building was destroyed 
by fire in 1848 and all the records with it. On the same plot but 
a little removed from the old site a handsome new brick struc- 
ture was erected. This church served the congregation well until 
the last Sunday in Jan., 1896 when this building was burned 
and again all the records were burned with it. Thus this congre- 
gation has had the misfortune to be two times burned out of a 
church home. But they were substantial people as Lutheran 
people usually are and nothing daunted they immediately built 
larger and better on the same spot. The present beautiful struc- 
ture is a monument to their devotion and sacrifice for the cause 
they love. It was built at an expense of about $5,000.00 and was 
dedicated free of debt. St. John's is now a Lutheran church, the 
Reformed, sometimes called German Presbyterians, having long 
since surrendered all claim to it. Air. Peter Stryker came to this 
valley in 1784. He died in 1789 and was the first interment made 



3l8 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

in what is now the Lutheran cemetery here. In 1864 or there- 
about another plot of ground was secured adjoining the church 
on which was erected a parsonage. This parsonage is the present 
abode of the pastor. Thus St. John's has had a long and event- 
ful history. It is unique in that it is a self sustaining rural 
pastorate, having its own church and parsonage. May God 
Almighty bless it and its people. 



GERMAN-ENGLISH CHURCH 

Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 

By W. H. Deible, M. D. 

Sunday, May 1, 1898, Rev. Carl Zinssmeister, pastor of Grace 
Church, corner South Main and Ross streets, Wilkes-Barre., Pa., 
allied himself with a number of Germans, composed of former 
members of St. Paul's, Christi Kripplein and Grace Lutheran 
Churches, to worship in the lecture room of the Y. M. C. A. tem- 
porary organization was effected and Church Concil elected. After 
two years Rev. Carl Zinssmeister went to St. Peter's Church, of 
Syracuse, N. Y. 

Rev. Paul E. Bergeman, of Lily, Pa., became pastor March 
1, 1900. A movement at once was instituted to bring the congre- 
gation upon a permanent and more secure foundation. In 1900 
the congregation united with Susquehanna Synod, of the General 
Synod. And on January 2, 1901, a charter was granted to the 
congregation. On February n, 1901, the congregation pur- 
chased the property located at No. 32 and Xo. 34 East Ross 
street, purchasing price being $5,000. In July, 1901, the congre- 
gation began the erection of its House of Worship, which was 
completed November, 1901. On Sunday, December 8, 1901, the 
congregation held its first service and dedicated the Chapel on 
Sunday, February 16, 1902. Rev. A. S. Hartman, D. D., of Balti- 
more, Md., delivered the English sermon while pastor Rev. J. 
Yutzy, of Selinsgrove, officiated in German, with Rev. J. 
Waring, of Scranton, also assisting. At a congregational meet- 
ing, held Setpember 25, the Chapel received its name in honor of 
the martyred president. Hence the McKinley Chapel commemo- 
rates the occasion, that the entire union was mourning in the 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 319 

loss of the president. The dedicatory services were attended by 
the Conyngham Post, Xo. 97, G. A. R., officers of the Ninth 
regiment, N. G. P., Spanish American War Veterans. Com- 
mander Baab, of the Post, officiating. Slowly the congregation 
struggled through reverses, caused by coal miners' and machinists' 
strikes. Also the flood, of March 3 1902, burdened the mem- 
bers of the church with heavy loss. Yet the Lord prospered the 
work. On September 4, 1902, Rev. Paul E. Bergeman resigned, 
to accept a call to Ashland, Pa., the resignation to take effect on 
October 13. 1902. The church was now in a prosperous way, 
both financially and otherwise. 

Rev. Frederick Kern accepted the charge and was installed 
on November 29, 1902. He worked among the members en- 
deavoring to liquidate church indebtedness. Rev. Frederick Kern 
resigned November 30, 1904. 

Rev. Herman C. Fultz was installed December 1, 1904. An- 
other day of joy and gladness occurred on Sunday. July 15, 1906. 
After thoroughly renovating and adding more furniture to the 
interior, the church was rededicated by the pastor. Rev. H. C. 
Fultz. Rev. Paul E. Bergeman, of Ashland. Pa., preached the 
German sermon; Rev. S. J. Taylor, pastor of College Church, 
at Selinsgrove, Pa., delivered an appropriate sermon in English. 
The interior of the church received an inviting and very beautiful 
transformation. A vestry was added ; chairs were replaced with 
pews ; stained windows were substituted for the plain glass : 
floors carpeted ; chancel refurnished with a new altar ; altar 
chairs, pulpit, lectern and baptismal font ; pipe organ installed. 
The color scheme of the chancel furniture is white and gold. All 
these improvements incurred a cost of Si. 600, and was paid out 
of funds in the treasury, as soon as the work was completed. No 
appeal for money was made on the day of dedication. The of- 
fering was very liberal and purely one out of gratitude. The 
interior of the church has an entire new appearance, and the 
decoration beautifully and artistically displayed. Having accepted 
a call to St. John's Lutheran Church, Washington, D. C, Rev. 
Fultz tendered his resignation to take effect September 1, 1910. 

Rev. Charles J. A. Reichardt became pastor on November 15, 
1910. During this pastorate extensive improvements were made 
to the property by which it has been largely bettered as a place 
of worship and of the varied activities of a present day church. 



320 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



BRIEF HISTORY OF TRINITY EVANGELICAL 
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF SELINSGROVE, PA. 

Rev. Charles Leonard, D. D., Pastor. 



Trinity Lutheran Church was organized April 8th, 1843, 
with more than 200' members who separated from the old "Pine 
Log" union church, Lutheran and Reformed, on account of the 




Trinity Church, Selinsgrove 

opposition on the part of the original church to the "new 
measures," or revivalistic methods introduced by the pastor, Rev. 
J. P. Shindel. 

The corner-stone of the "New Lutheran" church was laid 
July 2nd, 1843, with impressive ceremonies, in the presence of 
a large and enthusiastic congregation. The new church building 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN' CHURCH 321 

of Greek style of architecture, "as most in harmony with the 
taste of the builders," was dedicated Jan. 28th, 1844. At this 
service the holy communion was administered to 236 persons. 

The Rev. J. P. Shindel, who was in Sunbury from 1812 to 
1853 an d served the union church as pastor for 2^ years from 
1820 to 1843 was the first pastor of the new church. With him, 
Rev. Henry Ziegler also served the congregation as assistant 
pastor. Rev. Shindel who was president of the East Pennsyl- 
vania Synod from 1843 to I 846, resigned March 4th, 1846. and 
Rev. Ziegler closed his labors in the pastorate a short time after. 

Rev. Reuben Weiser was chosen to succeed them, and assumed 
charge of the pastorate March 24th at a salary of S400 dollars 
per year, twenty dollars additional for moving expenses, and 
house rent free. Rev. Weiser served the congregation for two 
years and seven months. During his pastorate a Parish School 
House was built, which later became the sexton's house. During 
this prosperous year of 1848 seventy dollars was the total benevo- 
lence given for all objects ouside of current expenses. 

Pastor Weiser was succeeded by Rev. Jesse Winecoff, Dec. 
nth. 1848, who became pastor and Parish School teacher under 
very favorable circumstances. He received three hundred 
dollars from tuition fees and three hundred from the congre- 
gation and house rent free. The tuition for English branches was 
ten dollars, and for Greek and Latin fifteen dollars per year. 
Thus early in the history of the church great interest was taken in 
educational activities, and the Parish School was in a sense the 
forerunner of what later became the Missionary Institute, and 
now Susquehanna University. After four successful years of 
service Rev. Winecoff resigned Oct. 15th, 1852. 

The congregation had by this time reached a period when it 
was thought advisable to discontinue the use of the German 
language and to introduce the English services. After nine 
months vacancy, the Rev. Daniel H. Bittle was chosen pastor 
with the understanding that he was to officiate in the English 
language only. He began his pastorate Aug. 21st, 1853. During 
his administration a prayer service was held in the church once 
a month, and the benevolence of the congregation reached S250 
per year. This was the shortest pastorate in the history of the 
congregation, lasting only one year and four months. 

On April 20th, 1855, the Rev. Samuel Domer, who had gradu- 

Luth. Synod — -1\ 



2,22 



THE SUSOUl'HANNA SYNOD 



ated from Wittenburg College and the Seminary at Gettysburg, 
took charge of the congregation. During his pastorate the first 
steps were taken by the congregation leading to the organization 
of Missionary Institute. On June 9th, 1858, the following signi- 
ficant resolution was adopted : 

"Resolved: That the use of the lecture room of the church 
be given to the board of managers of the Mission Institute for 




Trinity Church, Selinsgrove 



the use of the classical school until such time as a more suitable 
building can be had." This resolution was supported with a 
subscription of fifteen hundred dollars in land from a member of 
the church council, Mr. John App ; and of the twenty thousand 
dollars, the original valuation of the school property, at least 
three-fourths came from this congregation and community. The 
Institute was never under the control of the congregation, but the 
congregation furnished the first recitation rooms, gave all the 
lands belonging to it, and in a large measure reared the edifice 
that has been of such value to the church during all the inter- 
vening years. 
- Rev. Domer was assisted in his pulpit ministrations, during 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH Z 2 Z 

the last three years of his pastorate by Profs. Henry Ziegler and 
Peter Born, since a large part of his time was taken up in teach- 
ing. 

He was succeeded in the pastorate by the Rev. M. L. Shindel, 
March ioth, 1867. the year of the organization of the Susque 1 
hanna Synod. Rev. Shindel was a son of the first pastor and a 
g'raduate of Missionary Institute. This congregation secured a 
dismissal from the East Pennsylvania Synod and entered into 
its new synodical relations a few days after the new Synod was 
organized. 

On April 5th, 1869, a building committee was appointed to plan 
for the construction of a suitable parsonage at a cost of about 
four thousand dollars. A substantial two and a half story brick 
building was erected and occupied the following year by the 
pastor, Rev. M. L. Shindel. 

The Rev. H. B. Belmer, as the next pastor of Trinity entered 
upon his pastoral duties Oct. 1st, 1874. During his faithful 
ministry, an aggressive and successful evangelistic campaign was 
conducted which resulted in ninety accessions to the church in a 
few months. This devoted pastor was deeply bereaved by the 
death of his devoted wife on July 22nd, 1880. She was greatly 
beloved and esteemed by the entire congregation and community 
for her splendid qualities and her consistent christian life. 

During the illness of the pastor's wife, the Rev. P. A. Heil- 
man, who had studied at Missionary Institute and AYittenberg 
College, supplied the pulpit for six months. 

After a successful pastorate of about seven years, Rev. Belmer 
resigned July 31st, 1881, 

Dr. Peter Born was chosen to supply the pulpit until a regular 
pastor could be secured. During this interim the church build- 
ing was renovoated throughout and changes made in the front 
entrance, at a total cost of twenty-two hundred dollars. 

The Rev. Jacob Yutzy was chosen as the next pastor and 
entered upon his ministry in this field April 2nd, 1882. A pipe 
organ was installed during his ministry and other material im- 
provements made. His pastorate was marked also by the fiftieth 
anniversary of the organization of the church, an event that was 
appropriately observed, and made memorable by the complete 
and accurate history of the congregation prepared by pastor 
Yutzv. 



324 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Having accepted a professorship in Susquehanna University, 
Rev. Yutzy found it impracticable further to prosecute the labors 
of the pastorate, and severed his pastoral relations Sept. 1st, 
1895, after having served the congregation faith fitly and efficiently 
for more than thirteen years. 

He was succeeded by the Rev. John H. Barb, D. D., who became 
pastor of Trinity in the middle of February, 1896. During his 
administration a steam heating plant was installed in the parson- 
age, and various improvements made to the parsonage and 
church property. An event of interest to the church in general 
during this pastorate was the death of the beloved missionary to 
Africa, Dr. D'avid A. Day, whose obsequies were held in Trinity 
church the latter part of Dec, 1897. 

After a brief, but most successful pastorate, Dr. Barb severed 
his relations with this congregation, March 26th, 1899. 

Rev. J. B. Focht, D. D., was chosen as his successor, taking 
charge of the field Sept. 1st, 1899. Improvements were made in 
the Sunday School room, modern conveniences were installed in 
the parsonage, the membership w r as materially increased, and the 
work of the church prospered in all respects during the admin- 
istration of Dr. Focht. For a second time, however, a call from 
the school deprived Trinity of a pastor, and Dr. Focht relin- 
quished the pastorate Sept. 30th, 1904, to accept the presidency 
of Susquehanna University. 

The Rev. S. J. Taylor, D. D., was chosen successor to Dr. 
Focht and began his labors in this field April 1st, 1905. During 
this pastorate further improvements were made to the parsonage 
property in the erection of two-story building for general utility 
purposes. A new steam heating plant was installed in the parson- 
age. The church was frescoed, recarpeted and equipped with 
electric lights throughout. The Sunday School room was 
equipped with four class rooms by means of glass partitions. 

After a successful pastorate of six years and four months, Dr. 
Taylor resigned the work, July 31st, 191 1. 

On March 1st 1912, Rev. Charles Leonard became pastor of 
Trinity. During this pastorate, which still continues, extensive 
improvements were made to the church property. Steel walls and 
ceiling, refrescoing, a concrete walk in front of the church, and 
other improvements were added to the church. The parsonage 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHL'RCH 



325 



property was also improved by a spacious porch, and repainting 
of buildings, and electric light fixtures installed throughout. 
The membership of the church has increased, and a splendid 
spirit of harmony and interest prevails in the work of Trinity 
congregation. 



ESPY CHARGE. 
History of Hidlay Church. 

August 19, 1796 Henry Hidlay conveyed to Andrew Creveling, 
George Espy, and Conrad Adams, trustees of the Briar-Creek 
Presbyterian Society, an acre of land upon which to erect a house 




Hidlay Church, Espy 

of worship. It is probable that such a house was erected the fol- 
lowing year 1792 the Presbytery of Carlisle appointed Rev. Henry 
to supply the congregation. Rev's. Bryson, Dunham, Henderson, 
Crosby, Lewers, Patterson, Hudson, Waller, Hand, Williamson, 
Newell, Salmon, Melick, Dickson, Spear, and Canfield have suc- 
cessively been pastors of this organization. Aug. 28, 1828 a new 
structure was erected on the foundation of the old one. 



326 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



Lutheran and Reformed congregations have also worshiped in 
the Briar-Creek church building. Rev. Isaac Shelhammer was 
first minister to the latter. At a later date Rev. William Fox or- 
ganized the former. Rev. Sharrets, Dimm, and Bergstresser were 
its first pastors. 

Rev's. Harmon, Kline, Reynolds, and Sunday have since min- 
istered to the Lutheran people. During the ministry of Rev. O. 
E. Sunday, in the year 1914 the Presbyterian and Reformed or- 
ganizations disbanded, leaving the church at the present time 
exclusively Lutheran. 



History of St. John's Lutheran Church, Espy, Pa. 

Rev. William Weaver, a Lutheran minister of Bloomsburg, 
from 185 1 to 1853, preached occasionally at Espy. A number of 
members of the Bloomsburg church were formed into a separate 
organization. Among- those who were prominently identified with 
the movement were David Whitman, John Shuman, Samuel 
Kressler, J. D. Werkheiser, Cyrus Barton, and Conrad Bitten- 
bender. The last two named constituted a building committee, 




St. John's Church, Espy 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



327 



and in the summer of 1853 a church building" was dedicated. 
Rev's. Philip Willard, William Weaver and the pastor were pres- 
ent at the ceremonies. Rev. E. A. Sharrets became pastor in 1853 
and remained in charge until 1859. Rev. J. R. Dimm was his 
immediate successor, but resigned in 1863. Rev. D. S. Trucken- 
miller was pastor from 1863 to 1867, J. M. Rice from 1867 t0 
^872, J. M. Reimensnyder from 1872 to 1876, William Kelly from 




St. Paul's Clmrch, Fowlerville. 



1876 to 1878 and E. A. Sharrets again from that time until Oct. 
1, 1886. 

After this, the pastorates being vacant for some time, the 
Espy-Briar Creek Pastorate was organized. Since this organ- 
ization it has been in charge of Rev's. Harmon, Kline, Reynolds, 
and O. E. Sunday. 

The church was erected during the pastorate of Rev. D. E. 
Ruply at a cost of S3, 500. It was dedicated Jan. 12, 1896. Rev. 
Drs. J. H. Weber and J. R. Dimm preached on that day. 



328 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



GRACE LUTHERAN, SCRANTON, PA. 



Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, Scranton, Pa., was organ- 
ized in the Young Men's Christian Association building Septem- 
ber 9, 1894, by the Rev. A. N, Warner, of Northumberland. Dur- 
ing the summer months the city had been canvassed by the Rev. 
Foster U. Gift, a student of Susquehanna University, under the 
auspices of the Board of Home Missions. A Sunday School was 
organized July 29, 1894, and services were held in the Y. M. C. A. 
until June 14, 1896. At the organization service Rev. Warner 




Grace Church, Scranton 

confirmed the class instructed by Rev. Gift and baptized Bertha 
and Irene Cunningham. Thirty-two charter members constituted 
the congregation. The first council consisted of Elders James 
Matter and John Stackhonse and Deacons Charles Bender and 
W. E. Shoener. During the fall and spring the pulpit was 
supplied from Susquehanna University until Rev Gift graduated 
when he was ordained by the Susquehanna Synod and became the 
first regular pastor June 1, 1895. 

The Ladies' Aid Society was organized September 26, 1894; a 
Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor on July 23, 1895, 
and «a Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary Society on Sep- 
tember 30, 1897. Each of these societies rendered valuable as- 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 329 

sistance to the Mission and much of the success attained is due to 
their efforts. 

Durnig the early years the Missionary Societies of the Sus- 
quehanna Synod made special contributions to the Scranton work 
until the Mission became one of the special congregations cared 
for by the Woman's Home and Foreign Mission Society of the 
General Synod. The general society still liberally assists in the 
payment of the pastor's salary. 

The growth of the Mission has not been rapid in spite of the 
strenuous efforts put forth by pastors and people to attain self- 
support. The industrial changes have caused so many removals 
and mission work demands so many sacrifices that the losses have 
been large. Of the 32 charter members ten retain their member- 
ship and eight of these are resident and active. During the years 
412 have been received into membership of whom 200 remain on 
the rolls and no are active. 

The first Bible was presented by Frank Sturges and Miss Emma 
E. Dengler. The Church Record was given by friends in St. 
Matthew's Church, Catawissa. The Communion tables were given 
by Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Van Buskirk. 

Through the efforts of Rev. Gift a lot and chapel at the corner 
of Madison Avenue and Mulberry Street were purchased May 
23, 1896, for $8,000. The Congregation raised $1,000 and the 
Board of Church Extension loaned $2,000 leaving 85,000 in a 
mortgage. During the fall the chapel, under the direction of 
John Kaufman was renovated and enlarged and the dedication 
took place January 17, 1897. Rev. Foster U. Gift and Rev. H. 
H. Weber officiated. 

Five pastors have served the congregation : 

Foster U. Gift, June 1, 1895 to May 1, 1889. 

Luther Hess Waring, June 1, 1889 to December 31, 1902. 

W. M. B. Glanding, February 16, 1903 to August 31, 1903. 

J. Luther Hoffman, December 1, 1903 to September 1, 1912. 

A. Walter Baker, December 1, 19 12 to 

Each pastorate has been marked by earnest work, self-sacrificing 
devotion and permanent advancement. 

The history of the first pastorate shows successful beginnings, 
gathering a congregation and providing it with a church home. 
Toward the close of his ministry Rev. Gift found that a new 



330 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

church building was becoming necessary and the W. H'. & F. M. 
society offered the congregation a loan of $4,000. Before the 
work was commenced Rev. Luther Hess Waring succeeded to the 
pastorate and, with representatives of the Board of Home Mis- 
sions, made a careful canvass of the city. After due considera- 
tion it was decided to change the location and build a new church 
home. Lots at the corner of Mulberry street and Prescott ave- 
nue were selected and a new church costing $15,568 was erected. 
The W. H. & F. M. society very kindly gave $4,000 of the amount. 
This church building is complete in all appointments and well 
adapted to the needs of the congregation for a long time of 
growth. 

The pastorate of Rev. Glanding was brief but long enough to 
increase the church membership. The Rev. J. Luther Hoffman 
succeeded with the longest pastorate of all. The floating debt 
was cleared, the property improved and the membership greatly 
increased during his administration. The field is difficult, but 
Pastor Hoffman built well and left the congregation in good con- 
dition for his successor. 

The Pastorate of Rev. A. Walter Baker has been marked by 
special effort to reduce the mortgage and to bring the mission 
to the point of self-support. A faithful membership has re- 
sponded nobly to the appeals and the mortgage indebtedness is 
being reduced each year. The auditorium has been newly car- 
peted by the Ladies' Aid Society and the Luther League is rais- 
ing a fund to purchase a pipe organ. 

The Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary Society deserves 
much credit for planning and maintaining Grace church in this 
important field. The present aggressiveness and efficiency will 
surely be rewarded with success and self-support in the not far 
distant future. 



SUSQUEHANNA UNIVERSITY. 

The location of Susquehanna Lmiversity in the territory of the 
Susquehanna Synod and the very intimate relations that both 
school and Synod have borne to each other naturally call for a 
somewhat extended account of the universitv. 



01- THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



331 




33- 



THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 



The founder of the university was Rev. Benjamin Kurtz, D. D., 
LL.D. He was one of the founders of the General Synod which 
w T as organized in St. John's at Hagerstown, Md., in 1820, Dr. 
Kurtz being the pastor. Next to Rev. S. S. Smucker, D. D., he 
was the most influential in the founding of the Seminary and 
College in Gettysburg in 1826 and 1832. As Editor of the Lu- 
theran Observer from 1833 to 1861 and a leader in missionary, 
educational and reformatory work and organization, and as an 




Steele Science Hall, Susquehanna University. 

author, he was for nearly half a century one of the leading fac- 
tors in American Lutheran history. 

Dr. Kurtz became convinced that the great need of additional 
men for the ministry could be satisfactorily met by an institu- 
tion that would give men a practical training, who, because of 
age or domestic ties, could not well take the longer and more 
theoretical courses which would be available and possible for 
others. He was confirmed in this view by what he observed 
of the operations of various mission institutes in Europe. He 
used the columns of the Observer for ten years to present and 
advocate his ideas. 

In 1856 the Maryland Synod after a long and ardent discus- 
sion approved of his ideas as to a Missionary Institute and ap- 
pointed the following ten persons to establish one : Revs. B. 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 7,33 

Kurtz, D. D., Geo. Diehl, D. D., F. R. Anspach, D. D,, John Mc- 
Cron, D. D., and J. G. Butler, D. D., and five laymen. 

These men after a time accepted an offer to locate the school 
at Selinsgrove, Pa., and the Maryland Synod then felt released 
from the responsibility of leadership and general control and 
some of the directors named by them gave way to others who 
lived nearer to Selinsgrove. 

The people of Selinsgrove and vicinity gave $22,000 to secure 
the location of the Institute and that of the Susquehanna Fe- 
male College, two-thirds of the amount being for the Institute. 
The charter was secured by Rev. S. Domer, then pastor of Trin- 
ity in Selinsgrove, and Col. J. Simpson, Esq., as representative 
of the Board of Trustees. The people of "Selinsgrove had stip- 
ulated that along with the Missionary Institute there should be a 
classical school of high grade. The original charter, with cer- 
tain amendments of later dates, secures to the institution all of 
the rights and privileges that are needed for the developmnt of a 
school that will offer and maintain the wide variety and the 
high grade of courses that might be appropriately offered in a 
school intended to serve the Church and the general community 
and to bear the title of university. 

The corner-stone of the first building, Selinsgrove Hall, was 
laid on September 1, 1858. Drs. B. Kurtz and Henry Ziegler 
were inaugurated on November 24, 1858. The addresses by dis- 
tinguished men on these occasions were notable and were pub- 
lished in a volume and widely distributed. 

From 1858 to 1894 the name of the school was Missionary 
Institute ; since then it has been Susquehanna University. The 
superintendents of Missionary Institute were: B. Kurtz, D. D., 
IX, D., 1858-1865; Henry Ziegler, D. D., 1 866-1881 ; Peter 
Born, D. D., 1881-1893, and F. P. Manhart, D. D., 1893-1894. 
The principals of the Classical Department of Missionary Insti- 
tute were: Peter Born, D. D., 1859-1881 ; John B. Focht, D. D., 
1881-1882, and J. R. Dimm, D. D., IX. D., 1882-1894. 

The presidents of Susquehanna University have been : F P. 
Manhart, D. D., 1894-1895; J. R. Dimm, D. D., IX. D., 1895- 
1899; C. W. Heisler, D. D., 1899-190157. I. Woodruff, Litt. D. 
(acting), 1901-1902; G. W. Enders, D. D., 1902-1904; J. B. 
Focht, D. D., 1904-1905; and C. T. Aikens, D. D., since 1905. 



334 TH £ SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

The main buildings were erected as follows : Selinsgrove Hall, 
1858-1859; Gustavus Adolphus Hall, 1 894-1 895 ; Seybert Hall, 
1 901-1902; Alumni Gymnasium, 1903-1904; Steele Science Hall, 
1912-1913. There are additional valuable buildings, such as the 
heating plant, the steam laundry, dwelling houses and a small 
dormitory. 

Two buildings have been bought and occupied recently by 
student associations thus introducing a new factor in the devel- 
opment of the university. At this writing the indications are 
that additional buildings and endowments will be secured in the 
near future. 



INDEX 



Adams, Rev. J. A., 64 

Albert, Rev. J. J., 38 

Allbeck, Rev. M. M 62 

Alleman, Rev. B. F., 98 

Alleman, Rev. M. J., 16, 173 

Alphabetical List of Pastors, 67 

Anspach, Rev. J. M., 100 

Arnold, Rev. C. E., 82 

B 

Baker, Rev. A. W., 38 

Barmen, Rev. R. G., 60 

Banquets, 2^ 

Barb, Rev. J. H 84 

Bateman, Rev. S. E., 60 

Belmer, Rev. H. B.. 124 

Bergstresser, Rev. F. L., 78 

Billheimer, Rev. T. C, 12, 98 

Bikle, Rev. C. G., 26 

Bodine, Rev. J. V., 86 

Born, Rev. Peter 9, 16, 39 

Bottiger, Rev. S., 62 

Botsford, Rev. C. R., 46 

Bowers, Rev. C. R., 1 59 

Brewer, Miss Jessie, 53 

Bright, Rev. J. A., 74 

Brosius, Rev. C. H 148 

Brnbaker, Rev. J., 102 

Burke, Rev. T. C it6 

Byers, Rev. J. E 42, 181 

C 

Cannaday, Rev. 1 38 

Chamberlin, Rev. E. A., "[22 

Charges and Churches, l 33 

Charges and Congregations : 

Berwick, Holy Trinity, 92, 166 

Bloomsburg, St. Matthew's, 92, i/i 

Buckhorn, Canby 92, 181 

Christ, I ° 2 

St. Peter's, • ™9 

Straub's, - l8 o 

Catawissa, St. Matthew's, 93, 294 

Danville, Pine Street, • 93, 217 

Elysburg, Jacob's, 95, 189 

St. John's x 9i 

St. Peter's, 95 

Espy-Briar Creek, Hidlay's, 95, 191, 325 

St. John's, 326 

St. Paul's, 3 2 *> 

335 



33$ THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Follmer, Follmer, ^ 20 g 

Pottsgrove, ' ' ~ 2lY 

Hazleton, Trinity, g- 2 \-> 

Hughesville, Trinity g-' 20? 

Immanuel, Immanuel, ' \\ gg jgg 

St. James', \ " ' 200 

Trinity, ].'.'.' 200 

Jersey Shore, St. John's, qq, 218 

Garman, '221' 246 

Grace, 224 

Trinity, \\ ^3 

Kulpmont, All Saints' 236 

Lairclsville, Immanuel, 99 

St. John's, Germany, 

St. John's, Gordner's, 

■ St. Mark's, ..." 

Lewisburg, Christ, 99, 227 

Liberty Valley, Friedens, 101, 235, 255 

Liberty, 101 

Salem, 101 

St. Paul's, 101 

Zion, 101 

Millvlle, St. Paul's 101, 248 

Milton, Christ, 103, 237 

Trinity, 101, 242 

Montgomery Evan. Lutheran, 103, 249 

St. John's, 315 

Montoursville, Bethany 103, 184 

Mount Carmel, Grace, .- 105, 310 

Muncy, First Lutheran, 105, 133 

Muncy, Creek, Clarkstown 105, 146 

Emmanuel, 139 

Moreland, 144 

Mt. Zion, 142 

Northumberland, Grace, 195 

St. John's, 107, 192 

Trinity. 197 

Oriole, Limestone, ■ ■ 107, 298 

St. Peter's 299 

Plum Creek, Eden 109, 160 

St. John's, 161 

St. Peter's, 160 

Zion, 161 

Scranton, Grace, 109, 328 

Selinsgrove, Trinity, 109, 320 

Shamokin, Trinity, in, 308 

Shamokin Dam, St. Matthew's in, 306 

South Willamsport, Messiah, in, 270 

Sunbury, Grace, in, 147 

Trinity, m, 150 

Zion, 113, 153 

Turbotville, Messiah 113, 3°o 

St. James', • ■ , 30 1 

Watsontown, First Lutheran. 113 

St. T hn'=. 283, 281 

West Berwick, Grace, n5, 168 

St. Paul's, I/O 

White Deer Valley, Christ, n5, 275 

Messiah, 2 79 



0E THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 337 

Zion, 277 

Wilkes-Barre, First German-English, 115 

Grace, 115, 302, 318 

Williamsport, Redeemer, 115, 254 

St. John's, 115, 260 

St. Luke's, 117, 266 

St. Matthew's, 117, 257 

St. Paul's 117, 263 

St. Mark's, . 117 

Benton, 117 

Plymouth, -, 1 1 7 

St. John's Clinton Valley, 117 

Constitution, 39 

Conventions of Synod, 121 

Cooper, Rev. A. E., 104 

Cressman, Rev. M. S., 102 

Criley, Rev. W. W., ,-. SS 

D 

Dale, Rev. J. E., 28 

Deaconess' Work, 13 

Dietterich, Rev. E. E., 86 

Dietterich, Rev. H. A., 62 

Derr, Rev. W. H., 130 

Dimm, Rev. J. R., 96 

Doctrinal Basis, 41 

Domer, Rev t S., 36 

Dunlap, Rev. W. C, 130 

E 

East Pennsylvania Synod, 29 

Editors, 6 

Ehrehart, Rev. C. J., 56 

Eisholtz, Rev. Geo., 31 

Ely, Rev. G. B., s6 

English, Rev. J. S., 14 

Eyer, Rev, W. J., 173 

Evans, Rev. Joshua, 51, no 

F 

Fasold, Rev. J. C, 70 

Fasold, Rev. P. B,. 34 

Fickinger, Rev. C. 70 

Fischer, Rev. M. H., 74 

Fischer, Rev. W. E., 80 

Fishburn, Rev. M. EL, 14 

Fitzgerald, Rev. J. R., 98 

Flickinger, Rev. J. A., • so 

Focht, Rev. J. B. ; 48 

Foreword 5 

Francis, Rev. J. M 78 

Freas, Rev. W. S., 94 

G 

Gearhart, Rev. E. M., 118 

General Synod, 43 

Gift, Rev. F. U 118 

Gladhill, Rev. J. T 60 

Glaze, Rev. A. R., • • • • 82 



33% THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Good, Rev. M. F., QA 

Gotwald, Rev. W. H., X qq 

Griffith, Rev. J. G., '....'.'..'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'..'. 68 

Grossman, Rev. M., 51 

II 

Haithcox, Rev. H. C, I02 

Harman, Rev. H. E., 82 

Hartman, Rev. J. A 65 

Heilman, Rev. P. A., II2 

Heisler, Rev. M. L., 86 

Hemperley, Rev. G. H., ^ 

Henkel. Rev. D. M ™ 7 

Hilbish, Rev. W. H., '...'.'.'.'.'.'.'. 70 

Home, Rev. A. R., ?o 

Huber, Rev. C, . . 70 

Hughes, Rev. S. P., 56 

I 

Incorporation, 45 

Irvine, Rev. I., 24 

J 
Jacobs, Rev. H. E., 21, 63 

K 

Kautz, Rev. B. F., 90 

Keller, Rev. J. B., ' 12, 106 

Kemp, Rev. M. S., 128 

Killinger, Rev. E. B., 6s 

Koser, Rev. J. A., 86 

Kurtz, Rev. B. 157, 333 

L 

Lake, J. W., 90 

Lantz, Rev. C. A 24 

Leisenring, Rev. E. H., 132 

Lentz, Rev. A. W., 94 

Leonard, Rev. C., 78 

Lincensure, 7 

List of Pastors, Alphabetical, 67 

Lohr, Rev. L. L., 112 

Lowe, Miss M. E., { - 53 

Luther Alliance, 11 

M 

McGann, Rev. I. H 51, 74 

McCron, Rev. J., ' 29 

McLinn, M. E., 177 

Mack, Rev. P. S., 12 

Manhart, Rev. F: P., 18 

Manifold, Rev. J. H. C, 130 

Mardey, Rev. O. D. S 34 

Meetings of Synod, 121 

Meyer, Rev. F. W., 30 

Meyer, Rev. Roy J., 24 

Michael, Rev. H. C, 30 

Miller, Rev. A. B 106 



OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 



339 



Miller, Rev. H. G., 3 o 

Ministerium, 7 

Missionaries, 2 =; 

Missionary Institute, 330 

Montoursville, White Church, (1867), ... ^7 

Mountz, Rev. S. M., [[ 20 

Muhlenburg Centenary, g 

Mullen, Rev. O. A., ;-. 14, 124 

Musselman, Rev. J. H., .' 98 

Myers, Rev. U., 34 

N 
Xeff, Rev. LP., 5 3 

O 

Officers of Synod, 121 

Ordinations, 45, 125 

Orwig, Rev. S. P 12 

P 

Parson, Rev. George, 16, 138 

Pastors, Alphabetical List of 67 

Pennsylvania Synod, 27 

Peters, Rev. B. A., 59 

Pohlman, Rev. A., 63 

Presidents of Synod 121 

Presidents of Synodical W. H. and F. M. Society 5 2 

Publication Society 15 

R 

Reimensnyder, Rev. J. M 92 

Rentz, Rev. W. F., 201 

Reunions, 19 

Rhodes, Rev, M., 16 

Rose, Rev. H. C, 126 

Rupley, Rev. D. E., 112 

Rutherford, Rev. W. L 118 

S 

Sample, Rev. J. R 50 

Sassaman, Rev. I. S., 90 

Schoch, Rev. W. H., 90 

Shannon, Rev. J. W 42 

Shannon, Rev. S. G., 14, 16, 124 

Sharretts, Rev. E. A., D. D 4 

Shimer, H. D., .' 130 

Shindel, Rev. J. C, 310 

Shindel, Rev. J. P 155 

Shindel, Rev. Jeremiah 173 

Shindel, Rev., M. E-, "4 

Smithdeal, Rev. J., 31 

Snyder, Rev. G. T., 257 

Spaeth, Rev. H. D. 27, 63 

Spangler, Rev. A. H., 63 

Staley, Rev. F. W 14 

Steck, Rev. C. F., 22 

Steck, Rev. J. M., 40 

Steck, Rev. W. F., 78 



540 THE SUSQUEHANNA SYNOD 

Stonecipher, Rev. J. I 20 

Streamer, Rev. C. R., ] 6 

Sunday, Rev. O. E., ,5 

Susquehanna Female College, 40 

Susquehanna University, 330 

Swartz, Rev. Joel, ; 

T 

Taylor, Rev. S. J., 20 

Tholan, Rev. S. F., 34 

Thrall, Rev. W. G., ' 30 

Traub, Rev. F. M., 02 

Treasurers of Synod, ... 10 

Trial of Rev. A. R. Home, 21 

W 

Wagner, Rev. J., 66 

Wagner, Rev. W. J 82 

Walter, Rev. h. W, 46 

Wampole, Rev. J. F., 106 

Waring, Rev. E, H., 50 

Warner, Rev. A. X 124 

Weber, Rev. J. H., 16 

Williams, Rev. J. R., 32 

Williams, Rev. L. T 32 

Williams, Rev. R. H 32 

Winton, Rev. H. B., 44 

Wirt, Rev. J. A., 72 

Wolf, Rev. E. J 76, 288 

Wolf, Rev. N. S., 120 

Women's Missionary Society. 55 

Y 

Yutzy, Rev. J., 54 

Z 

Ziegler, Rev. H., 56 

Zimmerman, Rev. A. K., I2 

Zimmerman Rev. J. E., 46 

Zimmerman, Rev. I. P., 74 

Zinsmeiser, Rev. C, .• ■ II2 



